Enter Wild: A 5-Day Devotional by Carlos WhittakerSample

“Enter War”

Now that we have Entered Rest and we are hearing from God (Day 2), we are going to start taking the next steps toward Entering Wild. But there is a step in between Rest and Wild. It’s War. This may sound terrifying, but the war we fight will lead us toward abundance because it is laced with the hope of the Cross.

It is in the supernatural realm that the war is happening. As it says in Ephesians 6:12, “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.” 

What I find fascinating is that even if someone doesn’t believe that there is a spiritual war going on, that person is not exempt from being a participant in said war. Even those who deny the existence of God and claim Christianity is a lie are engaged in this war. It is happening with or without our acknowledgment.

The same principle applies to our readiness for this war. Some of us might believe there is a war, but all we are carrying into battle is a Nerf gun and some foam darts. Still others may be training for this war daily and have special-ops-like skills. But no matter your skill set, you are in the war. Together with the rest of us. Fighting alongside one another. 

We are all in the same war, just fighting different battles. Those of you struggling with anxiety and depres­sion are standing alongside others struggling with cancer and heart condi­tions. Same war. Different battles. You may be fighting pornography, but you are fighting alongside someone fighting gossip. Perhaps you’re battling workaholism beside a neighbor who is fighting alcoholism. Same war, dif­ferent battles.

The good news is that we have effective tools and tactics to use as we engage in this spiritual war. They are described in today’s Scripture verses and other parts of the Bible. These tools will equip you to fight all the battles you face, while making significant progress for the forces of good in the spiritual realm. No matter your specific struggle, this armament will work for you. By using these weapons, you can experience peace and victory. And through healing and forgiveness, you will be ready for signs and wonders to happen all around you.

Father, Jesus, Holy Spirit, 

I come to be restored and renewed in You in the areas of my life where I’ve been stuck. I ask for those parts of me to receive Your love, Your life, and all the grace and mercy they need today. 

I bring the Cross and the blood of Jesus Christ against any­thing that stands in the way of this reconciliation, and I receive the healing that You promise in Your Word. 

In the name of Jesus, amen.