Jesus is Greater: What the Bible Teaches about Jesus' Power over DarknessSample

One of the most stirring statements embedded in Ephesians 6 is the reminder that we have a “gospel of peace.” While spiritual warfare often comes in benign or somewhat minor forms, some people—as I explore in my book Playing with Fire—experience more diabolical manifestations of evil.

Regardless of the intensity, there is hope. What we know from Satan’s description is that he ushers in the polar opposite of peace. And as we watch the news, look at social media, and explore the world around us, it is clear that peace is far from what we are observing these days.

It is easy to lose heart and to let hopelessness overtake us, but if we take the steps needed to put on the full armor of God, the Bible tells us that we can have peace in Christ, no matter what unfolds—a peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7). 

“The power of God to protect is greater than the power of Satan to pillage,” Hank Hanegraaff told me. “So, the emphasis on spiritual warfare is always on the provision that God has given to us to stand firm and after everything, to stand—to stand against principalities and powers of darkness.”

As we discuss the importance of building a deeper faith, consider doing a self-assessment to see where you stand. What are weak spots in your life that need strengthening? How can you better embrace your faith (in addition to the tips offered in our day 5 devotional). The forces of evil are real and diabolical, and your response is key.

I’ll leave you with the following scripture, which offers powerful insight:

In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. (Ephesians 6:16–17)