How To Fight

2 Corinthians 10:4-6 KJV

For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh:

4 (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)

5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;

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The way to win a fight in this world can be pretty obvious. The victory goes to the strongest. The most cunning and often the most conniving. 

And yes, we are in this world but our treasures are not here and our methods should not fit into the mold of what happens here "after the flesh."

So, how do we deal with our enemies and fight our battles in a way that honors God? Romans 12:19 has some clues "Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord."

"Avenge not yourselves" The NLT says "never take revenge" and The Message says "don't hit back." The Message goes on "Don’t insist on getting even; that’s not for you to do. “I’ll do the judging,” says God. “I’ll take care of it.'"

It is simply not our place to judge. We are all going through battles and we are just getting a glimpse into each other's lives. Also, we need to remember that our true battle is not against flesh and blood but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of this world (Ephesians 6:12). In other words, that terrible person we think is our enemy is going through battle just like we are. With varying degrees of success.

If avenging ourselves is what we do not do, what is it that we actually do? Romans 12:20-21 tell us. "Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good." 

I have heard varying opinions on what the "coals of fire on his head" means, but the plan of action is clear. We are to love our enemies (Matthew 5:44) and walk in love (Ephesians 5:2). If you have never tried it, I urge you to do so. It is the most difficult and powerful thing you will ever do.