I have given this a lot of thought and I think that some people might perceive the name of this blog differently than others. Because of that, I want to explain why I chose this title. Conquer is the important word in the title of this blog, but some people may gravitate to the word devil. Conquer means to overcome. So how do we overcome the enemy?
In order for me to answer that question, I need to identify the three stages of the Church. The Church Militant are those living on earth, The Church Suffering are those in purgatory, and the Church Triumphant are the saints in heaven. In this article, I am going to focus on us, the Church Militant. The Church Militant battle against the world, the flesh, and the devil. It is how one lives their life here on earth, which determines where they will spend eternity. The key is to remember that eternal means infinite or unending. Therefore, at the end of this earthly life, we will have either earned heaven, hell or purgatory. Purgatory is a temporary place of purification before a soul goes to heaven.
“Everyone is in a different place spiritually, and that spirituality depends on many different factors that are unique to each individual’s life experiences.”
Wendy
The devil is the ruler of this world and he relentlessly tempts humanity to turn away from God and toward sin. We are all confronted with temptations constantly throughout every day of our lives. It is how one chooses to respond to those temptations that define where they are in their understanding and relationship with God. That is not a judgment, it is just a fact. Everyone is in a different place spiritually, and that spirituality depends on many different factors that are unique to each individual’s life experiences. One person may have known God for their whole life and not have much of a relationship with Him at all. While another person may have found God through some kind of suffering and in a very short period of time, have an incredible relationship with Him. Whatever the situation may be, the relationship that a person shares with God will directly affect their response to the temptations they will face in this life.
“Anyone who loves me will be true to my word, and my Father will love him; we will come to him and make our dwelling place with him.”
John 14:23
When a person comes to truly believe that Christ lives in them, they instinctually strive to overcome their faults and failings. They begin to see their sinfulness and understand more clearly how it offends God. It is through their faithfulness to God that they grow closer to Jesus and allow Him to possess their hearts and become the center of everything in their lives. Without an intimate relationship with Jesus, it is impossible to overcome sin and conquer the devil. Once this relationship and deep love between God and the soul is formed, they become empowered and unwavering in their fight against the devil. Again, this process is different for every person. For one person it can happen rapidly and for another, it may take a lifetime. The only thing that matters is that it happens. It is by seeking Christ within ourselves, that we will have the strength and power to conquer the devil and that is the purpose and point of this blog.
I like the order and think it is important to point out that the Devil truly does exist and, in my case, ruled my life for almost 44 years! Thank you, Wendy, for putting together this blog to help others on the spiritual fight for our souls. Many blessings to you and prayers! Kendra
Clear as day.