How to Stop Fighting Battles Already Won: Resting in the Ultimate Benefactor

Have you ever felt like you were stuck in a "miry pit"? The harder you struggle to pull yourself out, the deeper you seem to sink.

I remember a time as a little girl at my Granny Henry’s house when I fell into a deep drain we called "the shock." I was wearing my wellies, and every time I tried to move, the mud sucked me down further. I was surrounded by nettles and completely helpless. In that moment, I didn’t need a manual on how to walk; I needed to be lifted out. That is exactly what Jesus does for us. He takes our feet out of the muddy clay and sets them upon the Rock.

The Roaring Lion vs. The Calm Mind

Scripture tells us to "Cast all your cares on him because he cares for you" (1 Peter 5:7). But interestingly, the very next verse warns us to be sober and vigilant because the devil prowls around like a roaring lion.

The word "sober" here actually means to be calm. Why can we stay calm in the face of a roaring lion? Because we know we aren't alone. We are reminded that while the enemy acts like a lion, he is often like a "mouse with a microphone"—he has no teeth because he was defeated at the cross. He can only devour those who give him permission. When we submit to God and resist the lies, he must flee.

Our Battle is Against Schemes, Not People

Many of us spend our lives exhausted because we are fighting the wrong battles. Ephesians 6 tells us to stand against the devil’s schemes. Notice it doesn't say we fight the devil himself—he is already defeated. We stand against his lies.

When someone hurts you or winds you up, remember: your struggle is not against flesh and blood. Don't take it out on the person; recognize the spiritual influence behind the conflict and remember that you have been lifted above it all.

Jesus: The Ultimate Benefactor

In Acts 10:38, Peter describes Jesus as one who "went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed of the devil." In the original Greek, the term for "doing good" refers to an Ultimate Benefactor.

Unlike modern charities that provide temporary relief, Jesus brings a permanent solution. He didn't just look at our problems from a distance; He "became flesh and dwelt among us". He came down to our level, touched the lepers, looked into the eyes of the weary, and then took every bit of that pain to the cross.

Moving from a "Broad Way" Mindset

We often hear that the "narrow way" is hard to walk, but I believe we’ve missed the point. The narrow way isn't about working harder to be a "good Christian"; the narrow way is Jesus Himself.

• The Broad Way: Trying to live in your own strength and ability.

• The Narrow Way: Surrendering completely, hiding yourself in Christ, and letting Him be your strength, your refuge, and your healer.

It takes two seconds to cast out a demon, but it can take years to change a mindset. Today, I challenge you to shift your perspective. You aren't a subject to slavery anymore. You are a child of God, seated in heavenly places, with the enemy under your feet.

Final Thought: Confidence in the Backup

When I was in school, a bully started picking on my little brother. My dad told me, "Don't worry, I'll go into that school tomorrow and put an end to it." Because I knew my dad had my back, I walked into school the next day with total confidence.

You have the ultimate backup. If Jesus says the battle is won, it’s won. If He says you are free, you are free. Stop fighting battles that were settled 2,000 years ago, and start resting in the victory of the Rock.

To watch the full message, click here: How to Stop Fighting Battles Already Won