In recent times, many have noticed an increase in evil and violence in the world. But what if this visible reality is only a reflection of a much deeper conflict? Military veterans with real combat experience are speaking up to remind us that the true war is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces. They know what it's like to be in the crossfire, and now they share how that preparation has helped them understand the spiritual struggle we all face.
The Bible already warns us:
For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. (Ephesians 6:12, NIV)This truth, which we sometimes overlook, gains new power when those who have been in real war zones confirm it with their testimony.
What Veterans Teach Us About Spiritual Warfare
Dan Schneider, a former combat helicopter pilot, and Jason Henderson, a retired Navy SEAL, have shared their experiences in recent interviews. Both agree that spiritual battle surpasses any human conflict because the enemy is unseen, but his attacks are real and constant. They describe how on the battlefield they learned to stay calm under pressure, work as a team, and trust their training. Similarly, in the Christian life we need to be trained in God's Word and in prayer to resist the enemy's attacks.
The apostle Peter exhorts us:
Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. (1 Peter 5:8, NIV)This warning is not to frighten us, but to prepare us. Veterans know that ignoring the enemy is a recipe for defeat. In spiritual warfare, denial is not an option.
The Christian's Weapons: Faith, Prayer, and Community
Just as a soldier does not go to war without his gear, the Christian cannot face spiritual battle without the weapons God has given us. Paul describes the armor of God in Ephesians 6:13-18: the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shoes of the gospel of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. Each piece is essential for our protection and for advancing.
Veterans emphasize the importance of teamwork. No one wins a war alone. In the church, we are the body of Christ, and we need to support one another. Corporate prayer, group Bible study, and accountability are strategies that strengthen us. As Ecclesiastes 4:12 says:
Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. (NIV)
Signs of the Battle: How to Recognize Spiritual Attacks
Not everything bad that happens to us is a direct attack from the enemy, but there are patterns that can indicate spiritual warfare. For example, when we experience persistent temptation, doubts about our faith, constant conflict in our relationships, or a sense of oppression without apparent cause. Veterans remind us that in combat, you have to be alert to signs of an ambush. Likewise, we must discern when we are being spiritually attacked in order to respond appropriately.
Jesus himself taught us to pray:
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. (Matthew 6:13, NIV)This petition acknowledges that we need God's help to avoid falling into the enemy's traps. Prayer is not an empty ritual; it is our direct line to the supreme Commander.
Assured Victory: The Power of Christ
Ultimately, the victory is already won. Christ's resurrection defeated sin and death, and through Him we are more than conquerors. Veterans know that even in the midst of battle, hope remains. Our hope is not in our own strength, but in the One who has overcome the world. As Romans 8:37 reminds us:
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. (NIV)We fight from victory, not for victory. Let us put on the armor of God and stand firm, knowing that the battle is the Lord's.
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