God sometimes lets us go through bad experiences so that we can learn to lean on him, rather than our circumstances, for our peace and joy. We’re at a state of war with an enemy — the Prince of the Earth who would, if possible, steal our very souls. Since the enemy can’t have our souls, he will do everything possible to rob us of our effectiveness and, especially, to steal our peace and joy. As Christians, each one of us has the power of the Holy Spirit within us. Put on the armor of God, use that power, and don’t cede any victory to the enemy!

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. (Ephesians 6:10-13 listen)