By Mike Kurtz
Read Revelation 12:7-9.
As I read these verses of the depiction of good vs. evil, I can only say “Amen!” to the fact that God’s greatest angel, Michael, and his army of angels will defeat the greatest fallen angel, Satan, and his army of angels. The real war is in the spiritual realm, and the victory is God’s. One day the spiritual and physical realms will be united and what is true in heaven will be true on earth. The defeat of Satan by the archangel, Michael, is a testament of God’s power and ability to defeat the strongholds of this world.
Perhaps an ironic product of Satan’s fall to earth is that his power will be used on earth more powerfully than ever. That doesn’t mean Satan’s fall from heaven will be a terrible mistake, but rather that he is not going to fall without a fight. His tumble down the mountain to his imminent death will bring others with him on this earth at that time. His deception will be more cunning, more promising, and more attractive than at any other time in history. Satan and his influence may be powerful now, but wait until his kingdom of darkness is threatened.
What do we take away from today’s passage? Perhaps it is the assurance of God’s power at work in the heavenlies, behind the scenes. Maybe it is the confidence to live knowing that no matter how powerful Satan’s power may be upon this earth, it is temporary at best. Or maybe it is reminder that within the spiritual realm lies the true power of God – a good reminder of the need and power of prayer. Take your pick. But the bottom line is that God will prevail, and we may find great comfort in that truth.