The Bible is filled with vivid imagery, and few symbols are as striking as the red dragon described in Revelation 12. This dragon, representing Satan, is portrayed as a ferocious enemy, seeking to devour and destroy. While most of us will never encounter a literal dragon, we all face metaphorical ones—the challenges, temptations, and spiritual battles that threaten to overwhelm us. How can we deal with these dragons in our lives and emerge victorious?
Recognize the Dragon
The first step in dealing with dragons is to recognize their true nature. Revelation 12:9 identifies the dragon as Satan, “the ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, the one deceiving the whole world.” The enemy’s primary tactic is deception—making us doubt God’s goodness, our identity in Christ, or the power of God’s promises.
Dragons in our lives can take many forms:
- Temptations: Subtle or blatant lures to sin.
- Fear and anxiety: Voices that paralyze us and keep us from stepping into God’s purposes.
- Opposition: Challenges from circumstances or people that seem insurmountable.
- Spiritual apathy: A gradual cooling of our passion for God.
Identifying these dragons is crucial because we cannot fight what we do not acknowledge.
Equip Yourself for Battle
Ephesians 6:10-18 reminds us that we are engaged in a spiritual battle and need to put on the full armor of God. Each piece of armor helps us deal with the dragons we face:
- The belt of truth: Counter Satan’s lies with God’s unchanging truth.
- The breastplate of righteousness: Live in obedience and integrity, protecting your heart.
- The shield of faith: Trust in God’s promises to extinguish the fiery arrows of doubt and fear.
- The sword of the Spirit: Use God’s Word as your offensive weapon against the enemy.
Through prayer, Scripture, and worship, we stay spiritually alert and strong, ready to confront the challenges before us.
Remember the Victory
One of the most encouraging truths in Revelation is that the dragon’s defeat is already assured. Revelation 12:11 declares:
“And they have defeated him by the blood of the Lamb and by their testimony.”
Jesus’ victory on the cross has disarmed the powers of darkness. Colossians 2:15 says, “Having disarmed the powers and authorities, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.”
We fight from a position of victory, not for victory. No matter how intimidating the dragons may seem, their power is limited and temporary.
Persevere with Faith
Dealing with dragons requires perseverance. Revelation 12:17 describes how the dragon makes war against “all who keep God’s commandments and maintain their testimony for Jesus.” This tells us that spiritual battles are part of the Christian life. But take heart: perseverance builds character and hope (Romans 5:3-5).
Practical steps to persevere include:
- Daily reliance on God: Spend time in His presence, seeking strength and guidance.
- Community support: Surround yourself with fellow believers who can pray with you and encourage you.
- Focus on Jesus: Hebrews 12:2 urges us to fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.
Slaying Your Dragons
You may be facing a dragon right now—a health crisis, a strained relationship, financial struggles, or spiritual doubt. Remember, you are not alone. God equips you for the battle, surrounds you with His presence, and guarantees your ultimate victory through Christ.
James 4:7 offers this encouragement: “So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” Stand firm in God’s power, resist the lies of the dragon, and trust in the One who has already won the battle.
Take a moment today to identify the dragons in your life, equip yourself with God’s armor, and step forward in faith. With God on your side, you can face any dragon and triumph.
