taking the strongholds

What if things are actually very different than what we have always supposed them to be?  In the above image, for example, who are the "good" guys?  The more colorful figures coming from the right-hand side of the image, with the "lions" and "crosses" depicted on their shield and banner, leads one to think that those are the "good" guys.  If we allow that to be the case with respect to the above image, then, may we not presume that the opposing army represents the "bad" guys?  And since the "bad" guys appear to be defending the castle, may we not further suppose that the castle belongs to the "bad" guys?

But what if that's not the case at all?

the devil's sword and shield

Most Christians seem to be a long time coming to understand the real nature of spiritual warfare.  They should know, at least, they are at war with the devil.  However, in my experience, it appears that relatively few Christians perceive the devil as a real danger, an enemy combatant, an experienced warrior.