Lesson 1 - See Your Enemy & Secure Your Walk

In Lesson 1, we're reminded that we're in the midst of an ongoing battle between light and darkness. The central message revolves around Revelation 12, which provides a '30,000-foot snapshot' of spiritual history. We learn that while Jesus has secured victory over Satan through His death and resurrection, the battle isn't over yet. Just as German soldiers continued fighting between D-Day and V-E Day in World War II, we face an enemy who, though defeated, still wages war against us. This understanding calls us to be sober and watchful, recognizing the reality of our angry adversary. The lesson challenges us to secure our personal walk with God, emphasizing the critical importance of daily Bible reading and prayer. We're encouraged to ask ourselves: Where and when do we meet with God? This isn't about legalism, but about putting on our spiritual armor and readying ourselves for the battles we face. By aligning ourselves with God's Word and following the Spirit's leading, we can live victorious lives, even amidst challenges.

Key Points:

•God created humans for a familial relationship with Him

•Satan's rebellion and ongoing efforts to deceive and destroy humanity

•Jesus secured victory against Satan through His death and resurrection

•The battle continues on earth as Jesus advances His victory through believers

•The importance of daily meeting with God and reading His Word

•Four essential prayers for spiritual growth and warfare

Scripture Reference:

Revelation 12 (particularly verses 1-12)

1 Peter 5:8

Matthew 12:43-45

Psalm 139:23-24

Acts 24:16

Jeremiah 17:10

Discussion Questions:

How does understanding the 'big picture' of God's plan, as described in the sermon, change your perspective on daily spiritual battles?

In what ways might you be unaware of spiritual warfare happening around you, and how can you become more attuned to it?

How does the concept of Jesus securing His victory against Satan, yet still advancing that victory on earth, impact your view of Christian living?

What are some practical ways you can 'secure your personal walk' with God, as emphasized in Lesson 1?

How might regularly praying 'Lord, speak to me today' and 'Lord, search me today' transform your relationship with God?

In what ways does the story of Private Stevens and the peaches illustrate the importance of spiritual alertness in our lives?

How does understanding ourselves as 'spirit, soul, and body' affect the way we approach our relationship with God and spiritual growth?

What are some challenges you face in consistently meeting with God, and how can you overcome them based on the insights shared in this sermon?

How does the concept of being 'sober to your angry enemy' balance with the assurance of Christ's victory in your daily life?

In what ways can you apply the four prayers mentioned (speak, search, show, send) to deepen your spiritual walk and preparedness for spiritual warfare?