Fighting the Right Fight
Life can feel like one long battle. Sometimes, it’s an argument with a coworker, a misunderstanding with a friend, or an inner struggle with fear and anxiety. But according to the Bible, not every fight is the right fight. Ephesians 6:10–12 reminds us that “we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world.” Your real enemy isn’t your spouse, boss, or neighbor—it’s the spiritual forces that work to pull you away from God’s truth. When we forget that, we waste our energy battling people instead of resisting the real threat.
Paul doesn’t just tell us we’re in a war—he tells us to suit up for it. In Ephesians 6:13–17, he describes the armor God provides so we can stand firm. This armor isn’t for decoration; it’s protection for a daily spiritual fight. The first piece, the belt of truth, holds everything together. Truth in the Bible isn’t just accurate information—it’s the living Word of God and the person of Jesus Himself (John 14:6; 17:17). Without truth, we are left vulnerable to lies that can pull us off course.
The breastplate of righteousness is next, and it’s important to note that it’s not our own righteousness that protects us. We can’t earn enough “good deeds” to cover our hearts. Instead, it’s Christ’s righteousness—given to us through His sacrifice—that guards us (2 Corinthians 5:21). This means our standing before God is secure, even when we stumble. We fight best when we remember that we’re not defending our own perfection, but resting in Christ’s.
The shoes of the gospel of peace remind us to step into every situation as peacemakers. These shoes help us stay ready to move with purpose, bringing the good news of Jesus wherever we go. In a world fueled by conflict, choosing peace is a powerful act of spiritual resistance. It’s not passivity—it’s active engagement in God’s mission to reconcile people to Himself and to one another.
The shield of faith is essential because attacks will come. Faith allows us to trust God’s promises even when circumstances scream otherwise (2 Peter 1:3). With this shield, we can block the flaming arrows of doubt, fear, and temptation. Then comes the helmet of salvation—protecting our minds with the assurance of what God has already done for us and the hope of what’s to come (2 Peter 1:3–7). Confidence in your salvation keeps you from being tossed around by every worry or false teaching.
The only offensive weapon listed is the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. God’s Word is alive, powerful, and sharp. It’s not just for study—it’s for battle. When Jesus was tempted in the wilderness, He fought back with Scripture, not arguments. When we know and speak God’s Word, we cut through lies and push back darkness.
But even with all this armor, Paul makes it clear—prayer is the power that fuels the fight (Ephesians 6:18–20). Prayer keeps you connected to your Commander, aware of His strategy, and supplied with His strength. It’s not a last resort; it’s your lifeline. Through prayer, you can stand firm not only for yourself but also on behalf of others in the battle.
The good news? The war has already been won through Jesus’ death and resurrection. But the fight is still daily. Until Christ returns, we will face battles—some small, some overwhelming. The key is to make sure we’re fighting the right fight: standing against the enemy, grounded in truth, covered in righteousness, moving in peace, trusting in faith, confident in salvation, wielding the Word, and persevering in prayer. That’s how we not only survive but overcome.