[Note: New podcast episode and blog — link in footnotes.]

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Peter Wagner writes: “Without holiness we can expect very little power in spiritual warfare. The opposite of holiness is worldliness…”*

I’ll be honest. In an earlier chapter of my life, I would have grimaced at a statement like that. What in the world is he talking about? 

Over time, however, I have come to appreciate and better understand what the Bible teaches about spiritual warfare. It is the ongoing battle between good and evil in the world and in our lives. This conflict happens not only in the unseen realm, but in the physical realm as well.

Paul tells us to put on “the whole armour of God” in Ephesians 6:11. He also tells us to put on the “armour of light” in Romans 13:12. If we’re not in a battle, why would we put on armour?

Combine these statements with Jesus’ non-stop conflicts with the demonic, and we are wise to pay attention.

With this in mind, let’s return to Wagner’s statement: “Without holiness we can expect very little power in spiritual warfare. The opposite of holiness is worldliness…” Holiness is simply living in a way that is set apart. It is being distinct as the people of God as we respond to his calling on our lives. 

In contrast, “worldliness” is blending in to the culture around us, especially when it comes to modes of thought or action which go against God’s will.

Today’s devotional is simply an encouragement to keep moving forward in “holiness,” not only because it helps you to become more like Jesus, but because it gives you increasing strength in the very real spiritual battles that happen on a daily basis. 

So, what does “holiness” look like? It looks like:

-Trusting God
-Reading your Bible
-Praying
-Going to church
-Forgiveness
-Loving your neighbour
-Growing virtue
-Sharing the good news
-Being different for Jesus

These practices don’t only make you faithful, but they make you powerful. 

As Paul says in Ephesians 6:13: “take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.”

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Notes:

-New podcast episode and blog: “Answering Skeptics #3 – Christianity is a crutch.” Click here, or find it on ‘The Pulse Podcast with Matthew Ruttan’ (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.)

-The Up Devotional is published 5 days a week (Monday-Friday) and returns on March 30, 2026. This Sunday is Psalm Sunday!

-*C. Peter Wagner, “Territorial Spirits” in: Wrestling with Dark Angels: Toward a Deeper Understanding of the Supernatural Forces in Spiritual Warfare, eds. C.P. Wagner & F. D. Pennoyer (Ventura: Regal Books, 1990), 22.

-Bible quotes are from the ESV.