Day 4 of Jericho Walk

Yesterday, we learned about how God allows us to have new beginnings. By his grace, we are given the chance
to reset our lives and start afresh. But just as we take our first steps forward, the enemy launches another
attack and we suffer a spiritual setback. The story in Ezra 4 shows us that being God’s followers doesn’t
exempt us from the spiritual attacks of the enemy. In fact, when you make a commitment to the Lord, you can
be certain that the enemy will relentlessly attempt to set you back. As warriors in the spiritual battlefield, we
have to be prepared to resist those attempts. As always,

2 Corinthians 2:11 “…in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes.”

1. Our spiritual enemy will vigorously oppose every attempt at spiritual advance
“Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though
something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you
may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.”
1 Peter 4:12,13
2. The enemy’s most dangerous trick is to lure us into compromise under the guise of cooperation
I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice,
holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be
transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what
is good and acceptable and perfect.
Romans 12:1,2
3. The enemy often uses the tool of discouragement
"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the LORD
your God is with you wherever you go."
Joshua 1:9
4. The enemy often uses fear to follow discouragement
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and
help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Isaiah 41:10
5. The enemy uses misinformation and false accusations to oppose and undermine godly leaders
“Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you
because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad,because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way
they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Matthew 5:11,12
6. If need be, the enemy will form coalitions to overwhelm the godly with sheer force of numbers
 “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have
tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33

Biblical strategies to overcome the enemy’s tactics

1. Know the enemy

“Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking
someone to devour.”
1 Peter 5:8
2. Resist the enemy
3. Submit and draw near to God
“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”
James 4:7
4. Persevere in the face of opposition
“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive
the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.”
James 1:12

All the answers you seek are already in God’s word. When we suffer setbacks, let’s remember to pray and reach
for God’s word. We live in a dangerous world, and we can’t afford to be unarmed.

And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God
Ephesians 6:17

Discussion Questions

1. How can we know when cooperation with unsaved religious people crosses the line into spiritual compromise?

2. If Satan is going to oppose any attempts at spiritual advance that we make, why should we try?

3. Someone shares something that you think may be a half-truth or false accusation against someone else. What
should you say? How should you respond?

4. How can we know whether a hindrance to a spiritual advance is due to the enemy or to it not being God’s
timing right now?