Sometimes it is easy for us to forget that Satan has declared an all-out war on humanity. His strategy has always been to separate us from our Creator, the One who is the very source of life. But God is aware of the enemy’s ploys. In His infinite wisdom, God developed a secret strategy to thwart Satan’s plans. Paul described this game-changer in 1 Corinthians 2:7-8: “The wisdom we speak of is the mystery of God—his plan that was previously hidden, even though he made it for our ultimate glory before the world began. But the rulers of this world have not understood it; if they had, they would not have crucified our glorious Lord” (NLT). Paul is describing the power of the cross, a mystery that “was previously hidden” but was revealed after Jesus died and was resurrected. Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross made it possible for us to enter into a close relationship with God, thus thwarting our enemy’s ancient plans.

God’s plan for the cross is not the only mystery that was hidden from the rulers of this age. There are many aspects of God’s wisdom (His Word) that have been hidden and can only be discovered and discerned by His Spirit. As believers, we have been granted access to these mysteries through communion with the Spirit. As I mentioned earlier in this book, God was not content merely to “save us.” He also granted us position in Christ and entrusted us with authority and power over the same enemy who has long been the tormentor of our souls. We are now heirs and warriors in God’s kingdom, and our purpose is to advance the cause of Christ. In His wisdom, God has created an avenue by which He can secretly communicate His perfect plan to those of us who fight for His cause.

In times of war, militaries will develop entire “languages” in order to furtively communicate plans and information. Often they develop complex codes and communicate over protected frequencies. Why do they do this? Secrecy is imperative to the safety of lives and the success of operations. If the enemy discovers their plans, he can plan an informed counterattack. As children of God, we have been given access to heaven’s secret frequency through the Spirit—allowing us to discover the mysteries of God’s strategies without exposing our Commander’s plans to the enemy. Paul continues:

Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere. (Ephesians 6:18 NLT)

There is a reason God has commanded us to pray. As His warriors on earth, we are the ones who combat the forces of darkness. One of our most formidable weapons is praying in the Spirit. It keeps the enemy uniformed about the plans and purposes behind God’s strategies.