Ephesians

OK, in-line Scripture's going to appear in NKJV.

Ephesians 6:12-13: . . . [12] For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. [13] Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

Our striving and warring should be against the evil that attempts to pervade our hearts, the hearts of others, societies, organizations, and every other man-made institution. Because evil comes from without, very easily tempting the heart of men, we fight and direct our enemies toward combating those things that will drag down our brethren, and indeed our fellow men.

But given the situation of our lives, Ephesians 6:1-3^a caught my attention. We are to obey our parents. God has given us godly parents to exercise their will for His purposes. Honoring our parents brings peace and joy to God and men, and in time, we will receive the benefits of our labor. We have nothing to fear; we have everything to trust and hope for.

^a = Ephesians 6:1-3: [1] Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. [2] "Honor your father and mother," which is the first commandment with promise: [3] "that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth."