The true enemy that we face

A great deception satan uses is to be perceived as non-existent. The majority of adults believe that he is not actually a living being, but only a symbol of evil! If one doesn't believe an enemy exists, the battle is already lost to him! The strategy used by satan against Christians is to destroy the Body of Christ from within by, among other things, smothering its witness, creating division and through false teachings mixed with some truth.

We're at war in a spiritual dimension. This is made clear in the passage Ephesians 6:10-18 on the spiritual armor of the believer, equipping him for the great battles he must fight.

"Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil." Ephesians 6:11

Paul warns of the "wiles" of satan, which mean specific plans toward each of us. In other words, the enemy of our souls tailors his attacks to fit each person!

"Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints." Ephesians 6:18

The devil is described as "a roaring lion" walking about seeking whom he may devour (1 Peter 5:8, 9). So, we're instructed to be sober and vigilant and to resist our enemy steadfastly in the faith. In his "roaring lion" approach, satan is intimidating many pastors who are afraid to warn God's people concerning satanic deceptions for fear of losing a portion of their congregations. We must realize that satan's major attack is upon the Word of God, just as he attacked God's Word in the Garden of Eden.

The first activity mentioned once we have put on the armor is prayer. And we can go into battle knowing that we're not alone, but have the power of the Holy Spirit. Satan's already defeated for Christ is "far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named...all things are under His feet" Ephesians 1:21. Remember, "Greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world." 1 John 4:4

Go out today and know that God is with you
Pastor Mike