Don’t Negotiate When You’re Called to Fight

Don’t Negotiate When You’re Called to Fight

“From the wilderness of Kedemoth I sent messengers to Sihon king of Heshbon, with words of peace.” — Deuteronomy 2:26

Sometimes diplomacy is merely another face of the battle. Deception can be a weapon. But there are moments God calls you not to parley but to engage — to fight. Moses sent a friendly message to Sihon when God had already told him, “Go to war with him.” The enemy rarely shows up wearing an enemy uniform; often he comes asking for talks, offering treaties, or softening the ground with charm. Yet God’s command was clear: don’t bargain when you are meant to advance.

The Israelites were crossing into the Promised Land. God had gone before them and promised the territory; still Moses sent envoys “with words of peace.” That impulse to negotiate is understandable — but it can also be the very thing that slows God’s purpose. When God says “go,” don’t stall in conversation; move in confident obedience.

The New Testament helps us see the battlefield more clearly. Paul reminds believers that our struggle is not merely against flesh and blood but against unseen powers: “For we are not fighting against people made of flesh and blood, but against the evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world… against wicked spirits in the heavenly places.” — Ephesians 6:12 (NLT)

That’s why Paul lays out the full armor of God in Ephesians 6:14–18. Truth, righteousness, readiness to share the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, God’s Word, and prayer — these are not abstract virtues but military gear. Put them on. Use them. Practice them. Pray hard and long. Pray for one another. Keep your eyes open and help each other stand firm.

So don’t negotiate this fight away. When the moment comes to engage, fight with truth, fight with righteousness, fight with peace that advances the gospel, fight with faith, fight with the surety of salvation, and fight with God’s Word and persistent prayer. These are the weapons God gave you — use them boldly.

Have a fruitful day,
(Dr.) Emmanuel Okoro
(aka Dr. Lift)

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