“In order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes.” 2 Corinthians 2:11
Whether acknowledged or not, we all have an adversary, a sinister force that yearns to devour not just our lives but those of our loved ones as well. This adversary is shrouded in darkness and deception. He doesn’t appear before us with a sinister pitchfork but rather often takes on the guise of an angel of light, skillfully offering up temptations that appear alluring and fulfilling.
One of the adversary’s chief aims is to disrupt our faith and relationships, to sow seeds of doubt regarding God’s goodness and love.
To equip ourselves against these insidious tactics, let’s pull back the curtain in order to recognize his strategies.
Strategy #1: Undermining Your Passion for Spiritual Growth
He will seek to dim our whole desire to spend time with God. We’ll lose interest in the things of God. He will downplay the power of our most strategic weapons: prayer and the armor of God.
Don’t fall for this tactic. We must stand on His truths, putting on the armor, and praying without ceasing.
“Put on the full armor of God so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.” Ephesians 6:12
Strategy #2: Distracting Your Focus
The enemy disguises himself and manipulates our perspectives, so we focus on the wrong culprit. He will direct our attention to our husband, friend, boss or coworker, incorrectly casting them as the enemy.
Be savvy and recognize they are not our enemy but rather he is using them to do his bidding. “We war not against flesh and blood, but against … the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” Ephesians 6:13
These are the moments when we need to pull out the sword given to us, His Word, and use it! Pray the Scriptures over our situation. Need help praying God’s Word? (Click to PMS)
Praying God’s Word MAKES A DIFFERENCE.
Strategy #3: Questioning Your Identity
The enemy will magnify our insecurities, often leading to doubt about who God says we are. Don’t be fooled. We are daughters of the King who enjoy all the inherited benefits that come along with that title. When we belong to Christ, we have a new identity. We have a purpose for our life. Learn more here. (Click to Knowing God)
Strategy #4: Attacking Your Family
He wants to disintegrate our families, divide our homes, and render them chaotic, restless, and unfruitful. This intent is why prayer and living the way God prescribes at home is so important.
Strategy #5: Eroding Your Confidence
The enemy will constantly remind us of our past mistakes and poor choices in an effort to convince us that we are under God’s judgment rather than under His blood.
We overcome the enemy by the blood of Jesus and the word of our testimony. See Revelation 12:10
Part 2 Next Week
*Adapted from Priscilla Shirer’s, The Armor of God.
REMEMBERING GOD’S GOODNESS IN YOUR LIFE
Speaker: Tara Furman
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2023!
11:30am -1:00pm
Bring a friend for only $5.00!
