Concluding our series of how believers are to be different from the world, suggested by friend Ray Bandi, let’s think about what should be a difference in how we fight. The Apostle Paul was clear:

For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh, for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses. We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ. (2 Corinthians 10.3 – 5, NASB)

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. (Ephesians 6.10 – 13, NASB)

“We do not war according to the flesh.” Really? Much of the time, Christians argue just like everyone else. And our social media posts are indistinguishable from everyone else’s. And “our struggle is not against flesh and blood,” but we sure act like it is. That person who disagrees with me is the enemy. That person who is doing things I don’t approve of needs to be destroyed.

What is our primary weapon? E.M. Bounds would argue that the closing verse of the armor of God passage tells us clearly:

…praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints… (Ephesians 6.18, ESV)

It’s prayer. We might even try prayer when we want to complain about our government.

First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. (1 Timothy 2.1, 2, ESV)

And we might pray instead of being angry or quarreling:

I desire then that in every place the men should pray, lifting holy hands without anger or quarreling. (1 Timothy 2.8, ESV)

A friend of mine – a man of prayer – told me, “What would you pray for if you knew the prayer gun was loaded?” – Henry Clay