El diablo está en los detalles Lecciones de guerra espiritual de mi abuela

Growing up, my grandmother had a way of saying profound things in simple phrases. One of her favorite sayings was, “The devil is in the details.” As a child, I thought she meant that messy handwriting or poor planning would get you in trouble. But as I matured—especially in leadership—I began to understand the spiritual truth buried in that old phrase. 

Leadership often comes with unexplainable resistance—small, seemingly insignificant issues that escalate, relationships that suddenly shift, or critical meetings that fall apart without warning. These are more than coincidences. They’re often strategic distractions—details where the enemy lurks, subtly distorting momentum, delaying progress, and dividing focus. 

Spiritual Warfare in Leadership 

The apostle Paul reminds us in Ephesians 6:12: 

“For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” 

We are not just managing projects, personalities, or timelines—we are contending with spiritual realities that seek to undermine purpose. The enemy thrives in confusion, delay, and unchecked assumptions. That’s why discernment is not optional in leadership—it is essential. 

Sometimes, the greatest threat to your vision is not a visible enemy but a subtle misdirection. Like a whisper of doubt, a passive-aggressive remark, or a closed door that looks permanent but is really a test. If we don’t stop and seek God’s perspective, we’ll react to symptoms instead of discerning the source. 

Discerning Delays and Distractions 

Distraction is a strategy of spiritual warfare. A delayed email. A misunderstanding in tone. An overbooked calendar. These “minor details” can create major detours when left unchecked. If the enemy can’t destroy you, he will distract you—until you're exhausted, frustrated, and ineffective. 

This is why we need wisdom and kingly discernment—the kind that doesn’t just manage well, but governs from a place of spiritual authority. Leaders must learn to: 

Navigating Transition with Wisdom 

Transitions are especially vulnerable seasons for leaders. They’re ripe with change, but also with confusion. As you shift roles, launch initiatives, or step into new assignments, expect spiritual resistance—but don’t fear it. 

Seek God’s mind on the matter. Ask Him to show you what’s behind the curtain. Pray like King Solomon for wisdom (James 1:5) and like David for understanding in battle (Psalm 144:1). As my grandmother would say: “Don’t just look at what’s happening—ask why it’s happening.” 

We must become leaders who not only manage well but move strategically. We must learn to see in the spirit—to sense what’s not being said, to understand timing, and to cast out anything not aligned with the mind of Christ. 

Reflection Questions: 

Closing Prayer: 

Father, 

Give me eyes to see beyond the surface and ears to hear Your voice in the chaos. Teach me how to discern the details—not to be overwhelmed, but to be spiritually aware. Help me recognize the enemy’s subtle tactics and respond with wisdom, clarity, and prayerful boldness. Strengthen me in times of transition, and fill me with the courage to lead with Your mind and not my own. I cast out confusion, fear, and distraction. I declare that Your truth, peace, and power govern every detail of my life and leadership. In Jesus’ name, Amen.