How Satan Attacks
Do not give the devil a foothold.
Ephesians 4:27
We are all tempted by Satan and sometimes we give in to the temptation. If we understand how Satan attacks us and the reward for overcoming Satan, we can be victorious more often. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. (Galatians 5:24)
Let’s look at how Satan attacks us. The sinful part of each of us is our flesh, because it is from the world and craves things from the world. Satan takes the good things that come from God and distorts them causing us to sin, or worse, causing us to justify our sin. There is a way which seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death. (Proverbs 14:12) Satan’s goal is to control our emotions, driving us to make our choices from our feelings rather than by Godly wisdom. One rule that I’ve found to be helpful is this: Whenever we have to justify our thoughts, words, or actions, we are usually leaning toward sin. When we clearly know what the Godly alternative is (thought, words, or action) there is no need for justification.
When we make choices by our feelings or by our own justifications, we are giving Satan a foothold, and sinful behavior can become a habit. Our brains can actually rewire toward sinful behavior and the emotional part of the brain can crave the behavior. Every time we give in to a temptation, it affects the brain more powerfully. If we access the strength of God to overcome the temptation, then we can eventually destroy the sinful habit and have victory over Satan.
We always have a choice; God-given conscience tells us his direction, while emotion leads us in a different direction. If we make an emotional choice, going against the Godly choice, we are damaging ourselves. Dr. Timothy Jennings, in his book titled Could it be this Simple – A Biblical Model for Healing the Mind, states: “While God designed the will to operate at the direction of the spiritual nature, this is not always the case. When people exercise their will to choose to act in a manner that violates reason and conscience, they damage themselves, becoming restless, uneasy, and anxious. But when the will follows the direction of reason and conscience, then even though it might not feel good at the moment, healing occurs, and internal peace, confidence, and contentment result.” When we follow our Godly conscience and reasoning, we experience the satisfaction of victory over the temptations of Satan. The reward of being victorious over Satan is more fulfilling than any temporary pleasure from sin.
Today know that you have the power of God through the Holy Spirit to overcome any temptation. You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. (1John 4:4).
Today live in this divine power that comes directly from the Lord, and pray for his power when you need it. Remember all things are possible for God, and you can do all things through Christ. But Jesus looked at them and said to them, “With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.(Matthew 19:26) I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:13)
Let’s Pray: Lord, help me to live in your power through the Holy Spirit, and to overcome the world. I know this is possible only if I depend on your love, your guidance, and your strength. I will only be victorious if you keep my mind connected to you, increasing my desire to know you and to be closer to you. Thank you for giving me your infinite divine power and please help me to use it for your glory. In Jesus name, Amen