Wrestling Matches

For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. (Ephesians 6:12)

If you could lift the veil from the visible world, you’d see that nothing happening around you is truly random. Every difficulty, conflict, pressure, or distraction originates from the spiritual realm first. Paul didn’t write that you might wrestle or that it may be possible; he says you do. Every day, you’re in a wrestling match, but it might not be with whom you think.

Your struggle isn’t with your spouse, your boss, or your critics online. Your battle isn’t with people; it’s with principalities—spiritual systems that operate through people.

You can’t win a spiritual war by fighting human targets. Still, many believers live in exhaustion because they chase symptoms rather than address the root cause. When you understand who you’re really supposed to be wrestling, you’ll stop wasting energy on offense and start exercising your authority. This isn’t mythology or religion; it’s the spiritual reality of the world we live in. The kingdom of darkness is organized, strategic, and persistent. But it’s also defeated.

Every class of demon on earth or in hell is already under Jesus’ feet. Since you are part of the Body of Christ, they are under yours too. We wrestle not to destroy flesh but to dethrone darkness. Your greatest victory won’t come from winning an argument against people; it will come from winning an atmosphere against the real enemy.

Practical Application

Decide to refuse personalizing spiritual attacks. When conflict arises and the enemy uses people as puppets against you, pause before reacting. Ask, “What spirit is trying to divide us right now?” Pray for the person instead of posting about them or attacking them.

Ephesians 2:2; Ephesians 1:21