10. In what ways do supernatural forces seek to retard our growth in grace?

We are engaged in a warfare that is real and dangerous because “We do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual wickedness in the heavenly places” (Ephesians 6:12). Therefore, to combat these powers of darkness we must “take up the whole armor of God, that [we] may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand” (Ephesians 6:13). JTL17 12.1

Though supernatural forces are arraigned against us, we do not fight in our own strength. The angels of the Lord deliver us from evil and guide us with the Spirit into spiritual growth. The Bible warns us that Satan and his angels are in rage against the followers of Jesus who keep His commandments. His rage accelerates because he knows “his time is short” (Revelation 12:12). Jesus triumphed on the cross over all the forces of evil to give us victory! His power surpasses all the darkness of Satan’s kingdom. JTL17 12.2