THE (IN)VISIBLE ENEMY

JULY 9, 2020

By Dwaine Woo, Administrative Assistant

In the original Star Trek series there is an episode called “Day of the Dove.” Federation and Klingon crews battle one another. Not a difficult scenario to imagine. However, we later on discover that an outside entity is causing all the trouble––an alien that tampers with the minds of crew members, creating false narratives and memories that cause division and strife. After both sides realize that their hatred and anger is being orchestrated by the alien, they are able to come together to defeat and expel this enemy.

I love Star Trek! And this particular episode is a great illustration of what I feel is truly happening in the world today. With all the conflict going on, do we recognize the true enemy? 

The apostle Paul states that we are not at war with each other, but a battle for our spirit. I need to protect and arm myself against this enemy, who is the devil. When we can see who is causing this turmoil, we can fight against it. 

“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 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. Therefore, put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.” (Ephesians 6: 10-13 NIV)

Jesus warns us about the enemy, but He also points out the hope we have in Him in these following verses:

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” (John 10:10)

“Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”(John 8:32)

We have a great opportunity to share the Gospel, and tell the world that the answers we seek will not be found within us but with God. Only Jesus will truly set us free. We can then point to the source of strife and laugh. We can rejoice in the one true King, and start living as He intended and not as the enemy desires. We are the peacemakers, but first we must tell people about the Source of Peace.

Let me end with a prayer that’s a modified version of 1 Peter 5:8:

Prayer: Lord Jesus, Help me to be sober, to be vigilant; because my adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking to devour me. Help me to resist him, and remain steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by all who follow You in the world. But may the God of all grace, who called me to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after I have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle me. To Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen

Share this with a friend: