The Rules of Engagement

Weapons of Mass Destruction

V iolence In this text violence is likened to wine, which inebriates and causes a person to lose reason. Violence is hideous because it does not take into consideration laws, personhood, personal possessions, property, or the right to live. (See Psalm 11:5; 73:6; Proverbs 4:17.) W ars /C onflicts War is the state of open, armed, and prolonged conflict between nations, orga nizations, and people. The enemy loves to keep things stirring and in motion in order to derail, distract, and destroy. Satan employs demonic spirits to create discord and disharmony in your relationships, especially with those who have a divine assignment. In an attempt to camouflage your real foe, he will attempt to blind you spiritually and emotionally by causing you to focus on the person or situation he uses rather than on the spirit that is behind the conflict. Remember, no matter who or what he uses, he is the culprit behind every conflict and battle. (See 2 Corinthians 7:5; James 4:1.) W eights Weights are satanic burdens. They can come in a variety of shapes and forms, such as emotional weights, which can be yours or someone else’s; finan cial weights; or psychological weights. They are worries, cares, or concerns intended to keep you earthbound. (See Proverbs 11:1.) W orks of the F lesh The works of the flesh are carnally motivated activities and self-seeking endeavors that keep an individual from living a kingdom-oriented lifestyle. (See Galatians 5:19–21.) W orldliness According to 1 John 2:16, worldliness is characterized by the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life. John’s statement contrasts itself with things that are in God as opposed to being in the world. When a person looks for enjoyment, success, and the fulfillment of purpose outside of the will of God, this is worldliness. It is like building your house on sand

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