War in the Heavenlies and Some Surprising Warriors
As we celebrate the birthday of When You Love a Prodigal over the next month, I will post some thoughts connected to the book that will challenge and encourage all of us—those who love a prodigal and those struggling with living through all the uncertainty we are facing. These thoughts are for prodigal lovers and anyone else concerned about the conflict in our world.
Photo by Yuri Bodrikhin on Unsplash.jpeg
We are at war. At least, we are part of a war in the heavenlies—between good and evil.
Do I believe that?
I do.
And much of the strife, tension, warfare, and violence we see around the world is more than just conflicting ideologies, warring tribes, people demanding freedom, nations seeking to dominate. It is because powerful forces will use any conflict, misunderstanding, power grab to increase turmoil, animosity, fear and more. They are not taking sides. They are playing one against another.
Our God, on the other hand, is a God of love and peace. Yes, His angelic forces are engaged in the battle—to protect the earth and all its inhabitants from the destructive intentions of Satan.
There are many of God’s children who are actively involved for the Kingdom of God—where battles are won. On their knees. Worshiping God. Speaking His truth. Living out His love.
Our Former Prodigals Will Be Frontline Warriors
There is a group close to my heart who will, I believe, play a major role in this war: Prodigals. Boys and girls and men and women who have been—in essence—to hell and back. Many have turned and returned. Been redeemed and restored. And they are ready to put on their armor, be filled with His Spirit in places and ways most of us know nothing about.
Others aren’t there yet. They are still wandering, running from the love of family and of God. Often bringing great harm to themselves and hurt to those who love them. Many are on their knees, beseeching God for their safety, for their turn and return, pursuing them with love and perseverance.
I have had this word from the Lord for years: The prodigals we have prayed for—and continue to pray for diligently-- will be part of the holy warriors confronting the enemy. Many of them will be in front, leading. They have encountered the enemy and know better than most of us what we are up against.
A Relentless Enemy and a Victorious Savior
We know that our Jesus, our Savior, is the Great King and will emerge triumphant. In fact He has already won—when He rose from the dead and conquered death. But Satan continues to pursue to the end, seeking to capture as many as He can to take with him.
He is a real enemy. Jesus said: “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)
Peter warns 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)
When we resist the devil with praise and thanksgiving and worship, he flees. And when we pray, on behalf of our prodigals, we are opening the gates of Heaven and unleashing the power of God.
Don’t quit. Don’t give up. Keep on going to the throne of grace—you have an open invitation.
We will see our loved ones turn and return. And I believe they will be the frontline warriors for our Lord.
What about you? Are you in the battle?
C2020 Judy Douglass
Find how to resist the devil here.