They say the enemy doesn’t mess with us when we’re not a threat. As long as we don’t try to do something stupid, like taking a step of faith or helping someone else in their relationship with God, he leaves us alone.

But as soon as you try to take some ground in Jesus’ Name, watch the enemy bare his teeth and go wild in reaction.

It never fails.

As soon as you put your neck out there and take a stand, here come the attacks. Try to press into God a little more than usual and the enemy will be on you like a linebacker. Without mercy, he will try to pound you down with a series of breath-taking hits.

Practically speaking, what exactly does a spiritual attack look like? Well, they come in different shapes and sizes, but usually it is a barrage of dis-heartening, demoralizing, shots below-the-belt.

Take Mike, for example, who has recently embraced a commitment to grow deeper in his relationship with Christ. He is serving in his church, meeting with a small group every week, and deep-diving in his devotional time. Now, out of the blue, he’s getting whacked with all sorts of circumstances. He and his wife are having conflict, the car has broken down for the third time in three days, and his 12-year old daughter is working on a nomination for biggest drama queen ever.

Breathe, Mike, breathe.

The Apostle Peter became an expert in doing battle with the adversary and thankfully, he passed along some of his tactical insight. You may remember that after some very humbling losses to the dark side, Peter recovered and went on to become an empowered spiritual leader.

To Christian leaders like yourself he offers this holy heads-up:

Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. -I Peter 5:8-9

Did you get that? You might want to read it again. And again. Three times should do it.

Hey, if it seems like you are under attack, you probably are. But if it seems like you are under attack, be encouraged. It means you’re doing something right.

It’s a new day with God. Run with it.