July 01, 2026 | Be Connected
LAST WEEK BEFORE SUMMER HIATUS:
BE CONNECTED RESUMES AUGUST 3
Our Struggle Against Evil
Scripture: Ephesians 6:10-12(NIV)
10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 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.
Devotional
The book of Ephesians is about living a godly life in a godless world. Remember, the city of Ephesus was filled with shrines to Roman emperors and temples to Greek gods and goddesses. The Temple of Artemis was one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. People made a fortune by practicing sorcery and by selling multi-breasted statues to travelers desperate for fertility in their families and crops.
In this context, Paul began to wrap up his letter to the Ephesian Christians by challenging them to take a stand “against the devil’s schemes… against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” Being a follower of Jesus in Ephesus was not for the weak-willed.
This challenge is echoed in other parts of the Bible.
“The devil… was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies” (John 8:44).
“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings” (1 Peter 5:8-9).
“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7).
How are you being called to stand against the dark, evil spiritual forces of the devil? What does this look like for your family? What does this mean for your friendships, work life, or community? What could this imply for your church?
Jesus said, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10). Embrace this truth. Live this life. Be ready to resist and stand against the enemy of your soul.
