“Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:21)

ABSTRACT

In this comprehensive exploration of the ancient and ongoing spiritual warfare between good and evil, the article illuminates the biblical narrative from Eden’s fall and the inaugural promise of redemption in Genesis 3:15 to the eschatological battles foretold in Revelation, unmasking Satan as the deceptive dragon who wages war against humanity and God’s remnant—those who keep His commandments and hold the testimony of Jesus. It emphasizes that the true conflict is not against flesh and blood but against principalities of darkness, urging believers to don the full armor of God—truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and the Word—as essential defenses against the adversary’s tactics, while highlighting the cost of truth through persecution and the promise of victory via the blood of the Lamb and angelic cooperation. Drawing on scriptures like Ephesians 6:12, 1 Peter 5:8, and John 3:16, alongside inspired writings, the piece underscores God’s redemptive love, manifested in His longsuffering plan for salvation, and calls for unwavering surrender, vigilance, and active soul-winning, transforming trials into triumphs and assuring ultimate triumph through Christ’s Calvary victory for those who stand firm in faith.

THE FIRST PROPHECY OF HOPE

In these pivotal times, as messengers of truth, we find ourselves on a battlefield far more significant than any earthly conflict. This article serves as a guide, illuminating the ancient and ongoing war between good and evil, equipping us with biblical understanding and Spirit-inspired counsel to stand firm and labor effectively for the salvation of souls. We will delve into the prophecies that foretold this struggle, unmask the tactics of our unseen adversary, and explore the divine provisions that empower us to overcome. The serenity of Eden, once a paradise of unbroken communion with God, was shattered by the insidious whisper of temptation, leaving in its wake a silence heavy with the weight of transgression. Yet, in the very shadow of humanity’s fall, a divine utterance pierced the despair – the primal prophecy, a radiant beacon of hope amidst the encroaching darkness. “And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel” (Genesis 3:15). This pronouncement was not merely a sentence of judgment upon the serpent; it was, in its essence, the very first promise of redemption, the gospel whispered into a world now cursed by sin. Christ, the promised Seed of the woman, was here foretold, destined to walk a path of suffering yet ultimately emerge as the victorious Warrior. The contrast here is stark and resonant: where sin breathed the chilling winds of despair, the Word of God thundered the promise of ultimate deliverance. The Lord God, even in the face of disobedience, immediately set in motion a plan to counteract the devastating consequences of the fall. Additionally, the Scripture declares, “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9), and “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). These verses affirm God’s redemptive purpose from the outset. “The plan of redemption was arranged in the councils between the Father and the Son” (Review and Herald, May 28, 1908). “The Godhead was stirred with pity for the race, and the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit gave Themselves to the working out of the plan of redemption” (Counsels on Health, p. 222, 1923). This divine declaration remains the cornerstone of hope for humanity’s salvation.

THE DRAGON UNMASKED: DECEPTION IN A GLOBAL BATTLE

As the grand narrative of redemption unfolds through the ages, the book of Revelation pulls back the veil, revealing the true identity and far-reaching influence of the adversary who first sowed seeds of doubt in Eden. “And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him” (Revelation 12:9). Here, the deceiver is unmasked in his full, malevolent character: the great dragon, the ancient serpent, the Devil, and Satan – the one who masterfully deceives the entire world. The battlefield is not confined to a single locality or era; it spans continents and permeates cultures, with deception as his primary and most potent weapon. His accomplices are legions, both fallen angelic beings and human agents, all united in their opposition to God and His truth. In this passage from Revelation, we witness a stark contrast between the transparency of heaven and the elaborate masquerade of hell. The casting out of the dragon signifies a pivotal moment in the cosmic conflict, yet it does not diminish his destructive power; instead, his focus shifts to the earth, where he continues his work of deception with relentless intensity. If the serpent could infiltrate and poison the perfect paradise of Eden, how much more vigilant must we be in the complex and often morally compromised cities of men? The Bible warns, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour” (1 Peter 5:8), and “Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices” (2 Corinthians 2:11). These scriptures emphasize the need for constant vigilance against Satan’s schemes. “Satan is constantly seeking to deceive men, and lead them away from God” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1, p. 341, 1862). “The great controversy between Christ and Satan, that has been carried forward for nearly six thousand years, is soon to close” (The Great Controversy, p. 518, 1911). This unmasking of the enemy calls us to heightened discernment and steadfast resistance.

NOT AGAINST FLESH AND BLOOD: IDENTIFYING OUR TRUE ADVERSARY

In the midst of the visible conflicts that mark human history, the Apostle Paul, under divine inspiration, directs our attention to a deeper, unseen reality. “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 Christian’s warfare is not a mere struggle against human adversaries, be they governments, neighbors, or even those within the church who may oppose the truth. Instead, it is a profound and intense battle against an invisible empire, a hierarchy of spiritual wickedness operating in the heavenly realms and exerting its influence upon the earthly sphere. In a world often preoccupied with superficial blame and surface skirmishes, this passage from Ephesians turns our gaze inward and upward. The true enemy behind the curtain is not composed of flesh and blood but consists of principalities, powers, world rulers of darkness, and spiritual forces of evil – terms that describe an organized and potent spiritual opposition. The Church, therefore, must engage in this warfare with spiritual weapons and a clear understanding of the true nature of the conflict; retreat is not an option, for behind every act of sin and every instance of opposition to God’s will lies a strategic, unseen orchestrator. We have been delivered from the power of darkness and translated into the kingdom of God’s dear Son. The mind controls the whole person, and it is in the realm of thought that much of this spiritual battle is waged. “For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds” (2 Corinthians 10:4). “Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil” (Ephesians 6:11). “Satan is at work to deceive the very elect, and we need the wisdom that comes from above to discern his devices” (Manuscript Releases, vol. 13, p. 321, 1902). “We are in a warfare, not with men, but with Satanic agencies” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6, p. 111, 1900). The recognition of our true adversary strengthens our resolve to rely on divine power.

ARMED FOR ARMAGEDDON: PUTTING ON THE WHOLE ARMOR OF GOD

Given the formidable and unseen nature of the adversaries we face in this spiritual conflict, the Apostle Paul, in his wisdom, issues a crucial rallying cry: “Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand” (Ephesians 6:13). This is not a suggestion but a directive, urging believers to fully equip themselves with the complete panoply of God, an armor not forged of earthly metals but of spiritual virtues, enabling them to stand firm and resist the wiles of the devil. Truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, and the sword of the Spirit – these are not mere metaphors for theologians to ponder but essential armor for soldiers engaged in a life-and-death battle. The call is not to avoid the conflict but to actively prepare for it and to stand our ground. The contrast here could not be more profound: the devil deals in deceit and illusion, while God arms His children with the unyielding power of truth. Spiritual neutrality in this war is a dangerous myth; we are either intentionally armored and prepared, or we are left vulnerable to the enemy’s relentless assaults. This armor is freely provided, ready for us to “take” and utilize in our daily lives. The belt of truth secures our foundation, the breastplate of righteousness guards our hearts, the shoes of the gospel prepare our path, the shield of faith deflects the fiery darts of the wicked, the helmet of salvation protects our minds, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God, serves as our offensive weapon. Every piece is essential, and neglecting any part leaves us exposed to the enemy’s attacks. “Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked” (Ephesians 6:16). “And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” (Ephesians 6:17). “The armor is complete, and if we put it on, we shall be able to stand against all the wiles of the enemy” (Review and Herald, November 12, 1908). “The Christian must be fortified by the grace of God, if he would come off conqueror” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 3, p. 382, 1875). Equipped with God’s armor, we are empowered to stand resolute.

LAMBS AMONG WOLVES: THE COST OF TRUTH

When Christ, the Good Shepherd, dispatched His disciples to spread the message of the kingdom, He offered them no illusions of an easy or safe journey. “Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves” (Matthew 10:16). The call was not one of comfort but of sacred duty, and it carried with it the stark reality of danger and opposition. Arrests, scourgings, and accusations were not to be viewed as unexpected interruptions to their ministry but as the very proving ground of their faith and commitment. Yet, amidst these perils, they were instructed to be “wise as serpents, and harmless as doves,” a delicate balance of shrewdness and innocence necessary to navigate a hostile world. In a world where boldness often descends into brashness and courage can teeter into carnage, Jesus calls us to a different standard: to be cunning without cruelty, courageous without causing unnecessary harm. The wolves are undeniably real, their intentions malicious, but so too is the Shepherd, whose love and power are infinitely greater. The path of faithful witness has always been, and remains, costly, demanding sacrifice and unwavering dedication. We are sent forth not to seek our own safety but to proclaim the truth, even if it means facing the same opposition that Christ Himself endured. “Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:10). “But when they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another: for verily I say unto you, Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come” (Matthew 10:23). “God’s servants are to be true to Him, even at the peril of their lives” (The Desire of Ages, p. 357, 1898). “The followers of Christ must expect to meet with opposition and persecution” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2, p. 496, 1870). The cost of truth is high, but the Shepherd’s protection is sure.

THE REMNANT’S STAND: WAR AGAINST THE COMMANDMENT KEEPERS

As we approach the culmination of earth’s history, the book of Revelation unveils a specific focus in the ongoing spiritual war. Revelation 12:17 declares, “And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.” This final, intense assault is not directed at casual believers or those who compromise with the world, but specifically at the remnant – those who, in the time of the end, diligently keep the commandments of God and hold fast to the testimony of Jesus Christ. These saints, identified by their obedience to God’s law and their adherence to the “testimony of Jesus,” which includes the spirit of prophecy, revive the gifts, restore the Sabbath to its rightful place, and reignite the prophetic word – actions that directly provoke the unyielding rage of Satan. The contrast here is stark between compromise and complete consecration. One path may draw applause and acceptance from the world, but the other draws the fiery opposition of hell itself. If Satan could succeed in blotting them from the earth, his triumph would be complete. Yet, amidst this intense conflict, the promise remains: the remnant, empowered by God, will stand firm. “Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus” (Revelation 14:12). “And it shall come to pass, that in all the land, saith the Lord, two parts therein shall be cut off and die; but the third shall be left therein” (Zechariah 13:8). “The remnant of Israel shall not do iniquity, nor speak lies; neither shall a deceitful tongue be found in their mouth” (Zephaniah 3:13). “The remnant church will be brought into great trial and distress” (Selected Messages, vol. 2, p. 380, 1958). The remnant’s steadfastness is their strength in the face of Satan’s wrath.

VICTORY THROUGH THE BLOOD: OVERCOMING THE DECEIVER

But even this fierce, end-time war against the remnant is not fought in isolation or through human strength alone. “And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death” (Revelation 12:11). Victory is not achieved through the sheer volume of voices or the might of human armies, but through unwavering faith in the finished work of Jesus Christ and a living, powerful witness to His saving grace. Against the fiercest opposition, believers wield not just words but wounds – testimonies carved in tears and triumphs, proclaiming the power of the Lamb who was slain but now lives forevermore. This overcoming power is available to all who place their trust in Christ and boldly declare the truth of His Word. It is a victory purchased by the precious blood of the Lamb, a victory that breaks the chains of sin and the dominion of Satan. The love for earthly life does not deter those who overcome; they are willing to lay down their lives for the sake of the gospel, knowing that a far greater reward awaits them. “For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith” (1 John 5:4). “Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us” (Romans 8:34). “The blood of Christ is the eternal antidote for sin” (Review and Herald, December 23, 1890). “Through the merits of Christ, through His righteousness, we may gain the victory” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7, p. 31, 1902). This is the heritage of the saints, their strength and their ultimate triumph in the face of the great deceiver.

HEAVEN’S ALLIES: CO-OPERATING IN SOUL SAVING

The monumental work of rescuing souls from the deceptive clutches of the enemy is not a solitary endeavor for the children of God. Scripture and the inspired writings reveal that the vast resources and the entire angelic host of heaven stand ready and eager to cooperate with those who are laboring for the salvation of the lost. Angels are ministering spirits, sent forth to serve those who will inherit salvation. They actively participate in God’s plan of redemption, offering guidance, protection, and strength to those who are striving to lead others to Christ. They rejoice over every sinner who repents, demonstrating their deep interest in the salvation of humanity. As we draw rays of divine light from glory, angels of God are around about us, creating a heavenly atmosphere that benefits all within our sphere of influence. “Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?” (Hebrews 1:14). “The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them” (Psalm 34:7). “Angels are watching with intense interest to see how man will treat his fellow man” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 4, p. 564, 1880). “Angels are sent to minister to those who are striving to save souls” (Gospel Workers, p. 352, 1915). This divine cooperation provides an unshakeable foundation of hope and empowerment for every believer.

COMFORT IN CONFLICT: ENCOURAGEMENT FOR THE FAITHFUL

For those who willingly choose to endure hardship, opposition, and even suffering for the sake of truth and their unwavering allegiance to Christ, the Savior Himself offers words of profound and enduring encouragement. Matthew 5:11 declares, “Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.” And in Matthew 10:28, He assures, “And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” These promises remind us that earthly trials, however severe, cannot touch the eternal life that is hidden with Christ in God. This wonderful encouragement provides a powerful perspective, assuring us that our present sufferings are but light afflictions when weighed against the eternal weight of glory that awaits the faithful. “Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution” (2 Timothy 3:12). “For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us” (Romans 8:18). “The Lord will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble” (Psalm 9:9). “God’s faithful ones will be persecuted, but their fidelity will endure” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 450, 1889). Persecution, though painful, becomes a testimony to the enduring power of faith.

THE CALL TO ENDURE: RESPONDING TO SUFFERING FOR TRUTH

When, as followers of Christ, we are called upon to face opposition, hardship, or even suffering for the sake of the truth we uphold, the Apostle Peter provides clear and essential guidance. “Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy” (1 Peter 4:12, 13). This counsel urges us to reframe our understanding of trials; they are not to be viewed as unexpected or alien occurrences but as opportunities to share in the very sufferings of our Savior. Instead of succumbing to fear or discouragement, we are called to rejoice, recognizing that our participation in Christ’s sufferings is a privilege that will ultimately lead to exceeding joy when His glory is revealed. We are to arm ourselves with the same mind that was in Christ, who suffered for us in the flesh. This perspective empowers us to endure hardship not with resentment but with the understanding that it is a refining fire, testing and purifying our faith, ultimately preparing us for an eternal inheritance. “Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations” (1 Peter 1:6). “That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 1:7). “Trials are God’s workmen to remove the impurities and roughness from our characters” (Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 10, 1896). “The Lord permits trials to come to His people to prepare them for the work He has for them to do” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 3, p. 416, 1875). Embracing trials as part of God’s refining process strengthens our faith.

A LOVE THAT ARMS: GOD’S STRATEGY IN SPIRITUAL WARFARE

That the omnipotent and loving God would not only forewarn humanity of the intense and pervasive spiritual conflict that surrounds us but would also, in His infinite grace, provide us with a complete and effective suit of armor and the unwavering support of the entire heavenly host is a profound and undeniable testament to His immeasurable love and strategic wisdom. The very act of revealing the existence and nature of this unseen war is an act of love, allowing us to understand the challenges we face and to prepare accordingly. The provision of the whole armor of God – truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and the Word – demonstrates a Father’s care, equipping His children for battle against a relentless foe. Furthermore, the promise of angelic cooperation underscores that we are not left to fight this war in our own limited strength; heaven itself is invested in our victory. This comprehensive strategy reveals a God who is deeply concerned for our well-being, both now and for eternity. The contrast lies in perception: some may view prophecy as a message of dread and impending doom, while others, through the lens of faith, recognize it as a manifestation of divine devotion, a loving heads-up from a God who desires our safety and ultimate triumph. In the context of warfare, love is not removed or absent; rather, it is revealed in its most active and protective form. “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). “The Lord hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee” (Jeremiah 31:3). “God’s love for His children is strong, tender, and compassionate” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 77, 1905). “The love of God is greater far than tongue or pen can ever tell” (Steps to Christ, p. 15, 1892). The entire plan of redemption, from the first promise in Eden to the final victory over Satan, is rooted in God’s boundless love for His creation.

In light of these profound truths concerning the unseen war, the deceptive tactics of the enemy, and the loving provisions of our God, specific and weighty responsibilities rest upon each of us in our individual relationship with Him. We are called to a posture of complete and unwavering surrender to His divine authority, to a diligent and ongoing preparedness for spiritual conflict, and to an unyielding commitment to the principles of truth and righteousness. We must put on the whole armor of God – not selectively or half-heartedly, but sacrificially and with a full recognition of the battle in which we are engaged. Like the faithful servants of old – Daniel, Paul, and John – we must lean into the warfare, not away from it, recognizing that this is where our loyalty and love for God are truly tested. We must approach the Word of God as if decoding vital battlefield intelligence, discerning the enemy’s strategies and God’s commands with utmost care. And we must engage in prayer not merely as a routine but as a powerful means of summoning heavenly reinforcements, drawing upon the limitless resources available to us through Christ. Our responsibility is to glorify God in our bodies and in our spirits, which are His. We are to be faithful in the least, knowing that faithfulness in small things prepares us for greater responsibilities in God’s service. “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). “Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful” (1 Corinthians 4:2). “We are to stand firm in the strength of the Lord, trusting in His promises” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8, p. 46, 1904). “Faithfulness in little things prepares the soul for greater responsibilities” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 356, 1900). Our duty to God demands unwavering fidelity and active engagement in the spiritual battle.

The profound understanding of the spiritual war and the abundant divine resources available to us extends beyond our personal relationship with God, significantly shaping our responsibilities toward our fellow human beings, who are also deeply enmeshed in this cosmic conflict. We have a sacred duty to warn our neighbors, not with alarmist hysteria or apocalyptic fear-mongering, but with the unwavering hope that is rooted in prophetic truth and the boundless love of God. To share this vital truth is not an act of arrogance or self-righteousness but an expression of genuine altruism, a sincere desire for their eternal well-being. We cannot afford the silence of self-preservation while countless souls drift perilously toward the precipice of deception and eternal loss. Our love for our neighbors, for the whole human family, must be louder and more compelling than any fear of rejection or persecution. Our neighbor is every person who needs our help, every soul wounded and bruised by the adversary, every individual who is the property of God. We are called to go to our neighbors, one by one, drawing close to them with unselfish interest and love, sympathizing with their struggles, praying fervently for them, watching for every opportunity to do them good, and sharing the life-giving Word of God with their darkened minds. “Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself” (Matthew 22:39). “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost” (Matthew 28:19). “We are to be channels of light to those around us” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 143, 1905). “The work of God in this earth can never be finished until the men and women comprising our church membership rally to the work” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9, p. 117, 1909). Sharing God’s truth with others is a sacred privilege and responsibility.

REFLECTIONS ON THE ONGOING WAR

This war in which we are engaged is not a recent development, a fleeting anomaly in the tapestry of time. Its ominous echoes reverberate from the very dawn of creation in Eden, continuing unbroken through the annals of history to the present moment in our own communities and personal lives. The struggle between good and evil persists with undiminished intensity, but so too does the unwavering promise of God’s abiding presence, His unfailing protection, and His boundless, unconditional love. Our wounds, those scars we bear for the sake of truth and righteousness, are not marks of defeat but become powerful testimonies to the grace and strength of our Redeemer. Our trials, those fiery tests that refine our faith, are not meaningless afflictions but are ultimately transformed into resounding triumphs through the power of divine grace. “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness” (Isaiah 41:10). “The trials of life are God’s workmen, to remove the impurities and roughness from our character” (Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 10, 1896). “God’s presence is our assurance of victory in the conflict” (The Desire of Ages, p. 123, 1898). The enduring promise of God’s presence sustains us through every trial.

Therefore, let us stand firm, not relying on the frailty of our own limited strength, but anchored in the omnipotent power of Him who has already secured the ultimate victory on Calvary’s cross. Let us engage in this spiritual warfare not with the destructive weapons of hate, animosity, and fear, but with the constructive and transformative tools of purity, holiness, and unwavering faith that reflect the very character of our Lord. Let us live not in the paralyzing grip of fear and uncertainty, but in the confident assurance of God’s promises, knowing that He will never leave nor forsake us. For the ancient prophecy has been given, the insidious enemy has been unmasked, and the complete armor of God has been divinely forged and freely offered. The trumpet of the final warning has sounded its urgent call. The time to stand firm, to labor diligently, and to trust wholly in God’s power is now. “And this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith” (1 John 5:4). “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” (Psalm 27:1). “The Lord will give strength unto his people; the Lord will bless his people with peace” (Psalm 29:11). “God’s faithful ones will stand firm, trusting in His promises” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 213, 1882). In this cosmic battle, our victory is assured through Christ’s triumph.