Understanding Spiritual Warfare: Insights
“'If I was Satan or a demon, that's exactly what I would do. The last thing I want is a Christian to know that and believe it.” -Steve Dabbs
Lindsy and I had the opportunity to interview our guest Steve Dabbs, a retired senior military chaplain and author of the just released book "When Demons Surface," which delves into the complex and often misunderstood realm of spiritual warfare. This blog post aims to break down the key insights and actionable advice shared during the episode, providing a comprehensive guide for listeners and readers interested in understanding and engaging in spiritual warfare.
Introduction to Spiritual Warfare
We opened the discussion by introducing the theme of the episode: demonic influences and spiritual warfare. I emphasized the importance of understanding these spiritual battles in the lives of believers and set the stage for a thoughtful exploration of these concepts.
Steve shared his personal journey, recounting his upbringing in a Christian home and a pivotal spiritual awakening during his teenage years. His experiences in ministry, particularly as a military chaplain, have exposed him to various supernatural disturbances and demonic attacks, shaping his understanding of spiritual warfare.
Common Misconceptions About Spiritual Warfare
Misconception 1: Christians Cannot Be Attacked by Demons
One prevalent misconception is the belief that Christians are immune to demonic attacks. Steve emphasized that the Bible instructs believers to put on the full armor of God, indicating that spiritual attacks are a reality for all Christians. He referenced biblical passages that highlight the need for vigilance against spiritual adversaries.
Misconception 2: Terminology Confusion
Lindsy asked Steve to clarify the terminology used in discussions about spiritual warfare, particularly the distinction between terms like "demonized," "possessed," and "oppressed." Steve explained that the term "demonized" is the only one found in the Bible, while "possessed" and "oppressed" are not biblical terms. He elaborated that "demonized" can occur on a spectrum, with varying degrees of influence, and that it is essential to understand these distinctions to address spiritual warfare effectively.
Historical Context of Spiritual Warfare
Biphasic Sleep and the Bewitching Hour
Steve discussed the historical practice of biphasic sleep, where people would naturally wake up at the midpoint of the night, a time historically associated with heightened demonic activity, often referred to as the "bewitching hour." He shared that this period has been linked to increased incidents of violent crimes, suicides, and other disturbances, underscoring the need for vigilance during these hours.
Steve recounted a personal experience during the bewitching hour when he felt an urgent call to pray for his bloodline, leading to a dramatic encounter with a demonic presence. This experience reinforced his belief in the importance of intercessory prayer and spiritual preparedness.
Practical Steps for Engaging in Spiritual Warfare
Four Key Disciplines Based on Acts 2:42
Steve outlined four key disciplines that can help believers strengthen their spiritual lives and reduce the likelihood of demonic attacks:
Regularly Meeting with other believers: Gathering with other believers to celebrate the resurrection and support one another in faith is crucial.
Devotion to Scripture: Reading and understanding the Bible is essential for spiritual growth and protection.
Fellowship with Other Christians: Community and encouragement from fellow believers provide strength.
Prayer: Engaging in prayer, particularly the Lord's Prayer, is vital for spiritual warfare.
The Power of Prayer
I highlighted the significance of prayer in spiritual warfare, noting that throughout history, believers have engaged in prayer during the night. This practice is a powerful tool for spiritual defense and can help believers remain grounded in their faith.
The Importance of Unity and Understanding
Addressing Confusion and Division
I expressed concern about the confusion surrounding spiritual warfare, particularly within the Protestant evangelical community. I highlighted the importance of unity among believers and the need to address misconceptions rather than allowing division to hinder the church's effectiveness in spiritual battles.
Steve encouraged listeners to study their spiritual heritage and the early church, suggesting that understanding the historical context of faith can lead to greater unity and strength in the face of spiritual challenges.
Perseverance in Spiritual Warfare
As the episode drew to a close, we reflected on the significance of perseverance in the face of spiritual warfare. We reminded listeners that encountering opposition does not necessarily indicate a lack of God's favor; rather, it can be a sign that one is making a meaningful impact in the spiritual realm.
In summary, this episode offered a rich exploration of spiritual warfare, personal experiences, and the importance of authenticity in prayer and worship. We encouraged listeners to engage with their faith actively, seek understanding of their spiritual heritage, and remain steadfast in the face of challenges.
By understanding the realities of spiritual warfare, addressing common misconceptions, and practicing key spiritual disciplines, believers can equip themselves for the spiritual battles they may face. This episode serves as a valuable resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of spiritual warfare and strengthen their faith.
