A. To stand our ground in defending what we know is true from temptations against faith.

It is possible to lose ground that we have gained if we take it for granted because the enemies to our faith are still around us seeking to enter our thoughts again. Luke 11:24-26 "When the unclean spirit has gone out of a man, he passes through waterless places seeking rest; and finding none he says, 'I will return to my house from which I came.' . . . Then he goes and brings seven other spirits more evil than himself, and they enter and dwell there; and the last state of that man becomes worse than the first." Paul urges us to press on, but also says, "let us hold true to what we have attained" (Phil. 3:16).

B. To stay alert to the fact of the battle.

We cannot be naive, even when engaged in spiritual activities. Prayer presupposes an effort, a fight against ourselves and the wiles of the Tempter (CCC 2752). We must be alert as to the nature of our enemies -- not other people but spiritual forces in the world and in us that are opposed to God. Also, we must remember that our engagement strengthens the whole Body.

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we are not contending against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against the powers, against the world rulers of this present darkness, against the spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having girded your loins with truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the equipment of the gospel of peace; besides all these, taking the shield of faith, with which you can quench all the flaming darts of the evil one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints (Eph. 6:10-20).