By Benescke Janse van Rensburg

Imagine for a moment yourself being in a war zone. You are a soldier. Around you, shots are being fired. The battle is intense. Adrenaline is pumping. Then suddenly, you hear a loud cheer. The conflict is turning. You have the upper hand. The enemy’s soldiers start to throw down their weapons and flee!

Later on, you celebrate, grateful for the breakthrough. The battle is over and you can relax - or so you think. While laying down your weapons and dropping your guard, the enemy is crawling closer with a new strategy to attack and destroy.

This is what happens in our lives. In crisis times, for instance a marriage on the brink of a divorce, a loved one struggling with an addiction, a crisis at work, illness or pressure in our finances, we stand firm in faith. We pray. We fast. We hold communion. We focus on God. We pray for a breakthrough and beg Him for wisdom. What do we do when we experience it? Do we celebrate and drop our guard or do we continue to stand firm in our faith? 

In Ephesians 6:12 we are reminded that we are in war every day: “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” In 1 Peter 5: 8 we read: “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” How do we resist the enemy? We find the answer in Ephesians 6:13: “Therefore put on the full armour of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.” Also in 1 Peter 5: 9 we read: "Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith.” 

In what area of your life did you experience a breakthrough? It is important to celebrate a breakthrough and testify about it, but be watchful. Never drop you guard. Never stop praying for that loved one that came to salvation, that marriage that was restored, that atmosphere in the workplace or for the health of your body. Let’s continue to ask God for grace, protection and wisdom. And let us make sure we are putting on our armour today while standing steadfast in faith. God bless.

Father God, thank you for being almighty and in charge of my life. Thank you also for every breakthrough You have given me in the past. Please guide me through Your Holy Spirit to be ready and to resist the enemy's attacks. I ask this in the Name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

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