Satan’s Tactics
He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.
John 8:44
Satan is the father of lies, and every sinful temptation comes from a lie. Satan hates us because we are created in the image of God, and he wants to steal our eternal souls from God. He tempts us by twisting the Word and makes temptation look inviting to our fleshly sinful nature. Just like a fish going after a delicious looking lure, only to end up as a meal. If we recognize Satan’s temptations and how he masquerades as the angel of light, then we can quickly overcome them through the power of Christ. And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. (2 Corinthians 11:14)
Fear is Satan’s favorite weapon and he pretends to help us overcome fear by feeding us lies. There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. (1 John 4:14) The Lord tells us not to fear 365 times in the Bible, but instead to be secure in his love, knowing he will carry us through life into heaven with him. Satan does the opposite of God’s divine plan, fear produces anxiety, anger, and can affect our health. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7) Whenever Satan tempts us with fear, run to the Lord and seek peace, and trust his divine guidance. The Lord will calm your fears through the Spirit as he leads you step by step to victory over any circumstance. Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” (Matthew 9:26)
In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold. (Ephesians 4:26-27) Satan will use fear to make us angry and anger can easy lead us to sin and to worldly trouble, especially if we lack self-control. We can gain self-control if we are secure in our Godly identities and we have overcome long enduring habits. If anger is a problem then realize it is a tool Satan is using against you, and seek to gain control. Make every effort to resolve the issue causing the anger as soon as possible, because in can affect your physical, mental, and spiritual health.
For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. (1 John 2:16) Satan is always trying to tempt us through sexual lust, material greed, and prideful behavior. Fight this temptations is best with a heart change, from a worldly heart to a heart for God. This requires keeping our mind more focused on the Spirit serving the Lord and less time focusing on sinful things of the world. Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. (Romans 8:5-6)
Today try and keep your thoughts on the Spirit, serving the Lord and pointing people to Christ. If our minds are on serving the Lord, then we won’t be entertaining sinful temptations. Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. (Romans 12:21) Experience the victory over Satan as you destroy his temptations.
Prayer: Lord, give me strength and the wisdom to overcome any temptations for fear, anger, lust, greed, and pride. Keep me humble and secure in Christ, and a light in the sinful world. Guide me by the Spirit in your love and wisdom as I live this day for your glory. In Jesus name, Amen