For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. – Ephesians 6:12
The Nature of Reality
When we think about dualism, we often reflect on the two opposing forces that shape our existence. The Bible paints a picture of a world with both good and evil at play. Understanding that our reality has both a physical and spiritual aspect helps us to see life’s greater purpose. We are continually reminded to seek the light while being aware of the darkness that exists around us and within us. Our experiences become a battleground where these forces engage. Through prayer, we can navigate this duality and seek strength in God’s light.
James 4:7
Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. – James 4:7
1 John 1:5
This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. – 1 John 1:5
Ephesians 5:8
For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light. – Ephesians 5:8
2 Corinthians 6:14
Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness? – 2 Corinthians 6:14
Galatians 5:17
For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. – Galatians 5:17
The Battle Within
Each one of us experiences an internal struggle as we face the duality of our lives. The Apostle Paul expressed this conflict eloquently when he discussed the war between our sinful nature and our desire to follow Christ. We find ourselves torn between choices that either draw us closer to godliness or lead us down a path of destruction. Encouraged by the Word, we can find strength to choose the good over the evil, acknowledging that this battle is a part of our spiritual growth.
Romans 7:15
I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. – Romans 7:15
1 Peter 5:8
Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. – 1 Peter 5:8
Matthew 26:41
Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak. – Matthew 26:41
Proverbs 4:23
Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. – Proverbs 4:23
Ephesians 6:10-11
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. – Ephesians 6:10-11
The Power of Choice
Our lives are constantly filled with choices that reflect our beliefs and values. Dualism reminds us that every decision has potential consequences. We are encouraged to take responsibility and make choices that align with God’s will, focusing on good and rejecting evil. This exercise in choice provides us the opportunity to grow in faith, integrity, and character. Let us lean into the guidance of the Holy Spirit for our decisions, knowing that we are never alone in this journey.
Deuteronomy 30:19
This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live. – Deuteronomy 30:19
Proverbs 16:25
There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end, it leads to death. – Proverbs 16:25
Galatians 6:7
Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. – Galatians 6:7
Matthew 7:13-14
Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it. – Matthew 7:13-14
Joshua 24:15
But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve. – Joshua 24:15
The Fruit of the Spirit vs. The Works of the Flesh
In this spiritual tug-of-war, we can recognize that true freedom comes from living according to the Spirit rather than giving in to the flesh. The Bible speaks about the *Fruit of the Spirit,* showcasing the qualities that should emanate from our lives when led by the Holy Spirit. Likewise, the *works of the flesh* demonstrate what we should avoid as they are contrary to our faith. Every time we exhibit love, joy, peace, and other fruits, we reflect the goodness of God in our lives.
Galatians 5:22-23
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. – Galatians 5:22-23
Galatians 5:19-21
The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. – Galatians 5:19-21
Romans 8:5
Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. – Romans 8:5
Colossians 3:2
Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. – Colossians 3:2
Matthew 12:33
Make a tree good, and its fruit good, or make a tree bad, and its fruit bad, for the tree is known by its fruit. – Matthew 12:33
The Role of Faith
Faith is our anchor in the midst of duality. It provides the assurance we need to face challenges. By trusting in God’s promises, we equip ourselves to reject fear and embrace courage. With God’s strength, we can fight the dark forces of doubt, distraction, and despair. Faith is not just belief; it’s a reliance on God’s strength and a continual surrender to His will. As we hold onto faith, we can invite God’s light to shine through our circumstances.
Hebrews 11:1
Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. – Hebrews 11:1
2 Corinthians 5:7
For we walk by faith, not by sight. – 2 Corinthians 5:7
Mark 11:24
Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. – Mark 11:24
Psalms 46:1
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. – Psalms 46:1
1 John 5:4
For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. – 1 John 5:4
Hope in the Promise
In the midst of dualism, we can find solace in God’s promise of ultimate victory over evil. The Bible assures us that the struggle between good and evil will one day conclude with God bringing judgment and restoration. We can hold onto hope, knowing that through Christ, we are more than conquerors in this spiritual battle. Our faith journey is one filled with hope, encouraging us to remain steadfast and faithful until the day of redemption.
Revelation 21:4
He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away. – Revelation 21:4
Romans 8:37
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. – Romans 8:37
Philippians 1:6
Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. – Philippians 1:6
Jeremiah 29:11
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. – Jeremiah 29:11
Revelation 12:11
They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death. – Revelation 12:11
Final Thoughts
Throughout the scriptures, we see how dualism plays a significant role in our faith journey. The struggle between good and evil is real, and we are encouraged to be aware of the spiritual battles that take place. With God’s Word at our side, we can navigate this duality effectively. Our choices matter, and by leaning on the strength God provides, we can overcome. Let us remind ourselves that we are never alone and have hope in Christ, who has ultimately overcome the world.
The scriptures guide us in recognizing the internal battles we face, urging us to choose light over darkness and love over hate. Faith becomes our refuge, and through it, we find assurance in God’s promises. We can also explore messages of resilience in light shining through darkness and find wisdom in life without God.
As we continue on our faith journey, let’s stay united in love, lift each other in prayer, and seek the light in all our endeavors. May we remain devoted to the truth, always ready to share the hope we have found in Jesus.