We live in two worlds at once — the physical, seen world and the spiritual, unseen world. While we can touch the trees, hug our family, and see the houses we live in, there’s another dimension we can’t physically perceive. Yet, it’s just as real. In this episode of the Joyful Disciple Podcast, Kylie and her dad, Nick Oyler, dive deep into the reality of spiritual warfare, sharing Scripture, ministry experiences, and practical encouragement for believers.
Understanding the Two Dimensions
The Bible teaches that what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal (2 Corinthians 4:18). The unseen realm — the spiritual dimension — is where much of the real battle takes place. Kylie compares it to the wind: invisible, but undeniably present when it touches your life.
Three Dangerous Mindsets Christians Must Avoid
Nick and Kylie outline three common errors in thinking about spiritual warfare:
Believing it doesn’t exist – Denying the spiritual realm is essentially denying God’s power.
Thinking it’s unimportant – The unseen world affects us more than we realize, and prayer is one of the most vital acts of engagement.
Living in fear – Fear gives the enemy more room than he deserves; God’s power is greater.
Real Stories from Ministry
Nick shares vivid examples from his years in ministry:
A divisive church member whose actions went beyond personality conflicts, revealing a deeper spiritual struggle.
Resistance following a day of baptisms, showing how the enemy often attacks moments of spiritual victory.
An unsettling encounter with a woman who left a bullet with Nick’s name on it, a stark reminder of demonic influence.
Each story reinforces the truth of Ephesians 6: our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces in the heavenly realms.
The Power of Prayer and Scripture
Prayer is not just a ritual — it’s spiritual warfare in action. Kylie points out that Jesus Himself prayed to the Father, even though He was fully God and fully Spirit. Prayer, combined with the truth of Scripture, is the believer’s arsenal against the enemy.
Nick emphasizes “coming dressed for the battle” with the full armor of God:
Belt of Truth
Breastplate of Righteousness
Shoes of Peace
Shield of Faith
Helmet of Salvation
Sword of the Spirit (God’s Word)
Who the Enemy Really Is
Drawing from Job 1–2, Kylie explains that Satan operates with limited power — he must seek God’s permission before acting. He is not omnipresent like God and must send out forces to carry out his plans. Recognizing this truth helps believers stand firm, knowing that the Spirit within them is greater than the spirit in the world (1 John 4:4).
Encouragement for Those Facing Spiritual Battles
Nick closes with a reminder: love one another deeply. Living out God’s love is both a shield and a testimony. Prayer, Scripture, and love are not just defenses — they are victories in themselves.
Final Word
Spiritual warfare is real, but believers are not powerless. In Christ, we have authority, protection, and victory. Whether in ministry or everyday life, the call is the same: stand firm, pray without ceasing, and trust in God’s strength.
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