Author: Hollisa Alewine

Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist on the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. (Ep 6:11-13)

How did Jacob “win” the wrestling match with the angel? They weren’t exactly doing jiu jitsu all night! Paul’s letter to the Ephesians describes how righteous human beings fight situations that appear to be beyond their ability or control: stand fully and confidently in your salvation.

In the passage of beautiful blessings uttered by the sorcerer Balaam, we have another clue as to how Israel overcomes and appears: “How lovely are your tents, O Jacob, your tabernacles, Israel…”

In this same passage, “For there is no divination in Jacob” (Nu 23:23) is followed by the verse: “Behold! The people will arise like a lion cub and raise itself like a lion; it will not lie down until it consumes its prey and drinks the blood of the slain.”

The ultimate battle of the ages is won by warriors who are not using “divination” for the fight. When they operate in their appointed realm and calling, when they “stand,” they fight like lions!