Aggression

<<hostility, violence>>

This is a worldly trait driven by pride and a self-first attitude that can quickly explode into anger. This ungodly character quality of the sinful nature is contrasted with the gentleness that is a fruit of the Spirit (Gal 5:19-23). As believers we are exhorted to “Make every effort to live in peace with all men” so any degree of aggression is not an appropriate reaction (Heb 12:14; Jas 1:19,20). Rather than expressing our displeasure towards our fellow man it is directed to Satan and the evil that is rampant, including the principles that are operating in the world at large. When we became Christians, we automatically entered the Lord’s army to combat evil. It is a spiritual contest so the means of attack must be related to that realm (Eph 6:12). Our weapons are prayer, the name of Christ, His precious blood, the Word of God and our positive confession of faith in the victory gained on the cross over all the works of the enemy (1 Jn 3:8). Advancement is made by using the spiritual weapons to demolish ungodly strongholds (2 Cor 10:4,5).

Satan blinds the minds of people and holds them in bondage so they can’t escape his evil ruler-ship and come into a saving faith in Jesus. In Jesus name we should be actively attacking his kingdom, resisting his attempts to make in-roads into our lives and be on the offensive by extending the

We are to be peacemakers but not to tolerate the spiritual forces behind sin

Kingdom of Righteousness both locally and throughout the world (Mt 28:19,20; Mk 16:15-18).

Be enthusiastically focused to combat evil, assertively using the authority invested in us and delegated to us as Christ’s ambassadors to demolish Satan’s kingdom while building God’s. This involves not just attacking the evil but strengthening the good. Walk uprightly in victory and in obedience as good soldiers to the ‘Commander-in-Chief’ Jesus Christ. It requires vigilance and diligence not to be side-tracked or rendered ineffective by putting effort into what won’t last for eternity (Mt 6:19,20; 1 Pet 5:8). Apply yourself to the real purpose of your existence; living for the glory of God as you effectively accomplish the specific divine plan designed for you. The Christian walk is a challenge as the forces of evil oppose us but we are on the winning side with Christ, who will never leave us even in the heat of the battle (Heb 13:5). Keep your eyes fixed on Him rather than on what would come against you (Heb 12:2).