Part I

Guest Blogger Minister Senita Wright

In the 1989 movie Casualties Of War, which is set against the backdrop of Vietnam. We find a unit of U.S. servicemen so intent on seeking the pleasures of their flesh that they ignore the consequences that follow while temporarily forgetting they are actually at war. The main character, Erickson, played by Michael J. Fox, serves as the lone voice of reason in the unit but is often ignored even as his fellow comrades become distracted, which puts everyone in danger.

As the movie progresses, we see Erickson grappling with doing what is morally right in reporting the unit’s behaviors versus being loyal to his unit. However, at the movie’s conclusion, Erickson does not get to witness the justice he expects from being the moral agent. This leaves him without a tangible resolution, manifesting in nightmares years after the war has ended.

As Christians, we do not have the luxury of losing spiritual battles by becoming distracted in our walk with God. In 1 Timothy 6:12, Paul invokes a call to action by “Fighting the good fight of faith.” To persevere against internal struggles and external forces by continuing in faith and obedience to God’s will, even when facing challenges, difficulties, or opposition.

Christians can become casualties of spiritual war when we fail to remain vigilant in our faith, devotion, and relationship with God. Here’s how:

Spiritual neglect: When Christians become complacent in our walk with God—prayer, reading Scripture, worship, and maintaining a deep relationship—we become vulnerable. The enemy works best when people aren’t aware or actively engaged in their spiritual practices. In 1 Peter 5:8, believers are urged to “be alert and of sober mind” because the enemy is like a “roaring lion” seeking whom to devour. Complacency dulls spiritual sensitivity, making it harder to recognize the enemy’s subtle attacks.

Opening doors to the enemy: Sin, especially unconfessed or unrepentant sin, can act as an open door for the enemy to infiltrate a person’s life. Christians can fall into traps of temptation and compromise, which weakens our spiritual defense. Ephesians 4:27 says, “Do not give the devil a foothold.” Holding onto sin or willful disobedience opens the door for spiritual attacks, making us vulnerable to deception, discouragement, and other forms of spiritual oppression.

Lack of Spiritual Armor: In Ephesians 6:10-18, Paul outlines the spiritual armor available to Christians to protect ourselves in battle. Without putting on this armor daily—truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and the Word of God—a believer is left exposed.

Daily vigilance: If a Christian neglects to actively engage with these tools, we leave ourselves unprotected, much like a soldier walking into battle without their gear.

Isolation from Community: Isolation, which results from a weak support system, can be dangerous in spiritual warfare. In Hebrews 10:24-25, Christians are encouraged not to neglect meeting together, as the body of Christ offers strength, encouragement, and accountability. Without fellowship, believers may struggle to stay strong or discern the attacks. A Christian who isolates themselves is often more vulnerable to the lies and temptations of the enemy, who seeks to pick off the weak.

Thank you for your continued readership and support. Stay tuned for the conclusion next week…Blessings and Peace!

We’d like to thank Minister Wright for her contribution. She is very learned concerning the Word of God. A very good teacher and a prayer intercessor.