November 22, 2011:  Day 2

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.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.14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints

Ephesians 6:12-18

Have you ever met someone who believed in UFO’s or Aliens?  Our culture is crazy about considering the idea that we are not alone in the universe.  It’s amazing how many movies, books, and other media has these themes.

When I was a kid I loved movies like E.T…

and Star Wars…

Both of these movies had the idea that we aren’t the only ones in the universe.  Now, no matter what you believe about aliens, you know the thought has always seemed to interest mankind.  Are we alone in the universe?  Is there anybody out there?  Take me to your leader!  🙂

Today, we’re continuing our Voices series with this incredible passage in Ephesians.  Paul (the author of the letter) explains that we really aren’t alone in the universe.  What do we learn from this passage:

• There are spiritual beings in existence that are neither man nor God. (v.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.”
• These spiritual beings have order and a heirerarchy. (v. 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.“
• These spiritual beings are evil and therefore our enemies. (v.12b)
  “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.”
• Spiritual wickedness must be fought with spiritual wholeness. (v.13-18)
  We must be prepared to fight these spiritual battles. We can’t give in to the voices of spiritual wickedness or those who those voices influence.

Application:
For today’s application I want you to pick out one (or more if you are interested) of the pieces of spiritual armor that is in verse 13-18. Talk about the armour and how it can help you in your life today!