Q&A Home > S > Spiritual Warfare To liken my spiritual warfare to that of a soldier's; I feel I am like a soldier who is well equipped, armored and well trained; but when it comes to the actual battle; my will subsides; as I get worried, frustrated, or angered by the heat of the battle. How can this soldier's persistence last and succeed in battle for days, weeks, and even years at a time without falling? Or must he always succumb to injuries? What can be done to keep his will strong; and stability enduring? The analogy of a soldier at war with which you described your spiritual warfare is very normal and true for Christians facing temptation. St. Paul says "Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places" (Eph 6:10-12).
I do not want you to think about your inability to overcome sin but think positively "No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it" (1 Cor 10:13).
Life with Christ is not void of temptation. The more you want to grow spiritually and get closer to the Lord; the more the devil will intensify his combat against you. However, you should not be disheartened; but be assured that the only way to defeat the deceiver is to resist him "Submit yourself to God, and resist the devil, and he will flee from you" (Jam 4:7). For, it is not easy to defeat the devil if we try to do it on our own.
The question is not how to live years without falling into sin; but how to stand quickly after the fall and not succumb to sin. Instead of thinking about being spiritually enriched and be satisfied with yourself. Direct your thoughts to the love of God. The greater your love is for the Lord; the more will you make sure not to disobey His commandments. Then the thought that you are disappointing Him with your sin will cause you to immediately repent.
You should have the will to overcome the state of being lukewarmness and the slackness in overcoming sin. Have strong faith in Christ believing "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" (Phil 4:13).
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