Many Christians wonder why they feel so oppressed. They ask, "What more can I learn about our enemy so I can end his attacks? Such knowledge is certainly needed, "in order that Satan may not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes" (2 Cor. 2:11). But perhaps many have forgotten that Scripture's greater focus is on God and His purposes, and that the enemy is the one truly under attack ("…and the gates of hell shall not prevail against [the church]"). God can easily prevent an attack. So perhaps we should also ask, why does He allow it, and what is He teaching us through it?

The answers will reveal more effective ways to wage war. For spiritual warfare is more than just identifying demons and firing salvos of rebuke. It's also shaping our character as warriors through a lifestyle of repentance. Only training done on our knees makes us well fitted to our armor. A battle waged in this manner will make a demon's departure more sure. And that will not be the only blessed outcome. The lasting fruit of strengthened character will have made the victory sweeter still. Indeed, if such strengthening is one of God's purposes for allowing attack, the attack itself may become a means for victory.

To help equip God's warriors, a seminar by Elijah House Ministries titled, "Kingdom Warfare, Solid Solutions for Today," will be held on November 20-22 at the Gateway Ministry Resource Center in Coeur d' Alene, Idaho. Co-sponsored by the Gateway and The Elijah List, it will feature Mark Sandford and Robert Fetveit, with an appearance by special guest speaker, John Sandford. The seminar will conclude with a concert by Water Fall, a group of prophetic minstrels whose sensitive "harp and bowl" style will offer a refreshing counterpoint to the seminar's deep and life-changing messages. They will also lead worship throughout the seminar.

The cost will be $45 per person or $65 per couple (quite a bargain!). Because we believe that the ones who should benefit the most from our warfare are our youth, young people 25 and under are free. To offset the low cost, freewill offerings will be appreciated. To register, go to www.thegatewayintl.org or call (208)667-8527. The website also offers driving directions and a list of local hotels.