Psalm 139:14 – I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. (NIV)

As I was perusing an article in my monthly health magazine, I was astonished to read that 500 to 1000 species of bacteria inhabit our intestines, and that equates to roughly 100 trillion micro-organisms, all prepared to defend our bodies against the millions of deadly bacteria that are constantly bombarding us.

God our heavenly Father, knowing the evil of sickness created by Satan after mankind's fall into sin, has lovingly provided us with this amazing defence system. Naturally, we are to care for our bodies, which are His temples, by following healthy eating habits and getting enough sleep and exercise. Then, we can peacefully leave the rest with Him, knowing that we have done our part.

Thus, the battle in the arena of the physical body goes on continually. I imagine that, for the most part, people likely seldom think about it.

The parallel that struck me as I read the article is the other battle, the greater battle that goes on in the spirit. Spiritual warfare rages around us at all times.

1 Peter 5:8 – Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. (NIV 2011)

We may not even be aware of his devices until we unwittingly fall into one of his traps, and by then, it may be too late. Thus, the war of the two worlds is waged 24/7 against our body, soul, and spirit, with a single goal in mind: the destruction of mankind whom the Lord loves and gave His life for, in order to offer us the gift of eternal life.

Every day, we must consciously put on and use the spiritual armour that God has provided to protect our minds, emotions, wills, and spirits, as well as avail ourselves continually of the means of grace that He provides.

Ephesians 6:14-17 – Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 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. (NIV)

Prayer: Father, we know that You love us and that You provide for all of our needs, body, soul, and spirit, in Christ. Help us to be alert and aware of the reality of the battles raging around and within us. Help us to be ready to meet the enemy at any time and in any place as we function in the power of the Holy Spirit Who lives in us. Amen.

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About the author:

Sharon Y. Greer <sygreer11@gmail.com>
Sandycove Acres, Innisfil, Ontario, Canada
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