Are you a Casualty of War?

“The evening meal was in progress, and the devil had already prompted Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, to betray Jesus. “

John 13:2

The devil had put into Judas’ heart to betray Jesus. This same thing can happen to you.

I don’t mean in the same way as Judas. It can be any kind of sin. 

Well, in a sense, all sin is a betrayal.

Judas did not have his shield up. Now, this is not a commentary on Judas but simply a reminder that we are in a battle simply by being alive. We don’t have to do anything to provoke the enemy of our soul.

In Biblical times, Roman soldiers all locked the edges of their shields together to prevent the enemy from penetrating. If they did not band together, the opposing forces could get through and bring destruction to the whole group as well as the individual without a shield. The enemy is always looking for a way in… to kill, steal, or destroy. If one armor is down, he will find it and penetrate.

His M.O. is to fight against God and his kingdom and you are in his way!

If you are a living the Christian life you automatically step into the battle and become a target. Sometimes the powers of darkness aim to personally destroy you. Other times, they injure you to make you less effective in God’s kingdom.

As a casualty of war, you may be limping around or hiding.

• • Are you a casualty of war today?
  •  In what way have you ‘let your shield down’?
  • What are you going to do about it?

A Closing Reflection & Prayer

Jesus, thank You, for your Holy Spirit; your presence in me. I confess my weaknesses to you now. Infuse me with Your strength to do what I need to protect my own walk with You. Empower me to remain rooted in You—my source of strength, and to carry my shield. I surrender my will to you daily because I love you and want to be close to you. I want to please you. I want to be active in your kingdom and not a casualty on the sidelines.

May my life reflect Your strength so clearly that others are drawn to You. Amen.

T. J.  Kutscher © 7/24/26