“…rejoice, O heavens, and you who dwell in them! WOE TO THE INHABITANTS OF THE EARTH and the sea! For the devil has COME DOWN to you, HAVING GREAT WRATH, because he knows that he has a short time.” (Rev. 12:12) As followers of Jesus Christ, we are to be constantly aware that the devil is out to deceive us. Paul says, we need to know AS MUCH AS WE CAN about the devil’s tactics and plans: “Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are NOT IGNORANT of his devices…” (2 Corin. 2:11).
This is what God revealed to John on the isle of Patmos, he saw a woman about to give birth to the Christ child and, “…another sign appeared in heaven: behold, a great, fiery red dragon…And the dragon stood before the woman who was ready to give birth, to DEVOUR HER CHILD as soon as it was born.” (Rev. 12:3-4)
How will the Devil TRY deal with us?
- Deception –Jesus says, “The devil was a murderer from the beginning and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him…he is a liar and the father of lies.” (John 8:44).
- Division –One of Jesus’ final prayers for us was that we would be one, “…the glory which You gave Me I have given them, that they may be one just as WE ARE ONE:” (John 17:22). He prayed this at the Last Supper. He stresses that a chief aspect of His work on the cross is to overcome the DIVISIONS intensified by Satan. The word “diabolical” diabolein: to cut, tear, or divide. Jesus prays and works to bring back together what the devil has divided.
- Diversion –To be diverted is to be turned away from our primary goal. And for all of us, the most critical focus is God and faithfully following His path. Our path is along the path of faith, obedience to the truth, Most importantly, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul and mind.’ And Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matt. 22:37-39) And the devil does all that he can to turn us away from our true goal.
- Discouragement –As Christians, it is good to have high ambitions. But Satan often seeks to poison that which is good. For sometimes we lack the humility to recognize that we must make this journey with God as our top priority. If not Satan will tempts us to be impatient. We may expect to reach our goal quickly, showing a lack agape love toward others. We may be tempted to be discouraged with our pursuit of holiness. “Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees. “Make level paths for your feet,” so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed. Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and TO BE HOLY; without holiness no one will see the Lord.” (Heb. 12:12-14)
-Bill Stockham