In our journey as Christians, we confront a profound challenge known as spiritual warfare. This battleground encompasses not only direct assaults from demonic forces but also internal struggles within ourselves. Yet, among these well-recognized adversaries, there exists an often underestimated foe: the world. The world stands as a cunning and deceptive adversary. Unlike the devil’s overt attacks or the flesh’s internal struggles, the world’s influence is often subtle and deceptive.

Ephesians 2:2
[2] Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:

The term “world” carries a weighty significance in biblical context, as articulated in Ephesians 2:2. Here, it signifies not the physical planet but rather the prevailing attitudes, values, and systems that stand in opposition to God’s teachings. At the core of the world’s allure are its promises, Its enticement, of fleeting pleasures, material possessions, and worldly success, most often at the expense of our spiritual well-being, as it weaves temptations into the fabric of our daily life.

It whispers seductively, enticing us to prioritize these transient gains over our spiritual well-being. The allure it offers is powerful, drawing us away from prayer, scriptural study, and meaningful fellowship with fellow believers. In doing this, it creates a chasm between us and God, which leaves us overly vulnerable to its deceptive charms.

One of the world’s strategies is to divert our focus from spiritual growth to worldly pursuits. Careers, possessions, social status, these become the benchmarks of success, overshadowing the importance of nurturing our relationship with God. We risk becoming ensnared in a cycle of materialism, where the pursuit of temporal pleasures eclipses the pursuit of eternal truths.

Moreover, societal norms often clash with God’s principles, pressuring us to compromise our morals and engage in behaviors that contradict our faith. Engaging in gossip, dishonesty, selfish ambition, and other activities that displease God; these are just a few examples of the moral compromises the world encourages. Standing firm in our Christian values among such pressures is a daunting task, which demands an unwavering commitment and courage. It is crucial that we remember our ultimate allegiance lies with God, that our actions should reflect a commitment to Him.

1 John 2:15
[15] Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.

Here the apostle John warns us sternly. This serves as a poignant reminder of the dichotomy between worldly allure and spiritual devotion. The materialistic mindset of the world’s fleeting pleasures can cause us to lose sight of the eternal rewards that await those who remain faithful to God and prioritize our spiritual growth over material pursuits. 

Overcoming the world’s influence requires a conscious effort on our part to realign our priorities with God’s will. This process involves several key strategies:

Romans 12:2
[2] And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

Firstly, renewing our minds through immersion in God’s Word. Romans 12:2 urges us to be “transformed by the renewing of your mind,” emphasizing the pivotal role of scripture in shaping our worldview and discernment, allowing us to distinguish between the values of the world and the principles laid out in the Bible. As we internalize God’s word, we gain the strength to resist the allure of the world and remain committed to our faith.

Secondly, seeking and surrounding ourselves with a fellowship of like-minded Believers provides crucial support and accountability. A strong Christian community bolsters our resolve and encourages us to stay steadfast in our faith, even in the face of worldly pressures. A strong Christian community can uplift us during challenging times. Sharing experiences, offering prayers, and participating in acts of service together can remind us of the importance of prioritizing our relationship with God.

Lastly, setting clear boundaries and priorities is paramount. This includes managing our time and resources in a manner that reflects our commitment to spiritual growth, how much time we dedicate to work or entertainment, selecting carefully what media we consume, and choosing friends who share our Christian values. With clear boundaries, we can create an environment of spiritual growth that protects us from the world’s temptations. 

Matthew 5:13-16
[13] Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.
[14] Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.
[15] Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.
[16] Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

However, it’s vital to note that we are not called to withdraw entirely from the world but rather engage with it as ambassadors of Christ. Matthew 5:13-16 illustrates this beautifully, describing believers as salt and light, influencing the world with the love and grace of Christ while remaining distinct from its values.

In essence, navigating the challenges posed by the world requires vigilance, discernment, and unwavering faith. By prioritizing our relationship with God, cultivating a supportive Christian community, and setting clear boundaries, we can navigate the complexities of spiritual warfare and emerge as beacons of light in a world fraught with darkness. We can live in the world without being conformed to it, influencing those around us through our actions and exemplifying the love and grace of Christ.

Forged by Faith: Trials After Embracing Christ
Part 1: Foundations
Part 2: The World a Subtle Threat to Our Faith
Part 3: Wrestling with Our Sinful Nature
Part 4: Exposing the Devil’s Lies

The journey of faith is often portrayed as a smooth path paved with blessings. However, many believers encounter unexpected challenges after accepting Christ. This can be confusing and discouraging. The truth is, this is not a sign of weakness or even a lack of faith, they are the consequence of entering a spiritual ‘battlefield’ we weren’t aware of before.

This series, “Forged by Faith: Trials After Embracing Christ,” will dive into the nature of this warfare and how we can overcome it through our faith in Jesus Christ. We will explore various forces that oppose us all, covering the world, the flesh, and the devil.

Before accepting Christ, life might have seemed easier, devoid of the spiritual turmoil and conflict. The Bible describes this state in Ephesians 2:2, stating:

Ephesians 2:2
[2] Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:

Essentially, we were unknowingly being influenced by the devil, who operated in the shadows, subtly leading us astray and manipulating our desires. He steered us away from God’s abundant grace. However, the moment we surrender our lives to Christ, a profound shift occurs. The adversary, recognizing the threat posed by our newfound faith in Christ, intensifies his efforts to derail our journey. 

1 Peter 5:8
[8] Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:

As the apostle Peter warns in 1 Peter 5:8, the devil, now a “roaring lion,” actively seeks “whom he may devour.” Being no longer content to let us aimlessly wander, he launches relentless assaults, seeking to undermine our faith, sowing seeds of doubt in our hearts, and trying to hinder our love for Christ.

The trials and tribulations we face as Christians are not mere coincidences or random occurrences though. They are strategic attacks orchestrated by the enemy. 

Ephesians 6:12
[12] For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

This shows us that every setback, every temptation, and every hardship we encounter in our Christian life is but an aspect of the spiritual conflict raging around us. Yet, amidst these challenges and trials, there is hope. For we are not left to fend for ourselves in this spiritual warfare. Through Christ, we have been equipped with the mighty armor of God, which enables us to stand up firmly against the schemes of the devil.

Ephesians 6:13
[13] Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

As we hold to God’s promises and remain firm in our prayer, we can overcome every obstacle and emerge the victors in the journey of our faith. The hardships we face as Christians can serve to refine and strengthen our faith, eventually bringing us closer to God. 

James 1:2-4
[2] My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;
[3] Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.
[4] But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.

In the battlefield of our adversity, our faith is tested, purified, and made resilient, enabling us to be able to walk boldly on the path that Christ has set us on. The Christian life is not exempt from trials and tribulations, embracing Christ invites greater challenges as we grapple with an adversary who seeks to undermine our faith. 

1 John 4:4
[4] Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.

In the midst of the spiritual battle however we can find our strength, our hope, in Christ, knowing that He who is in us is greater than he who is in the world. Let us stand firm in our faith.

Romans 8:37
[37] Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.

Forged by Faith: Trials After Embracing Christ
Part 1: Foundations
Part 2: The World a Subtle Threat to Our Faith
Part 3: Wrestling with Our Sinful Nature
Part 4: Exposing the Devil’s Lies