Devices of the Devil

In order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes. (2 Cor 2:11)

The devil has many names and symbols. All of them reveal his twisted, perverted nature and mode of operation. He is the enemy of God. We can be protected if we know the schemes used by him.

His devices
1. He manipulates our mind. Satan’s main device is deception.
a) Trick us into seeing something that is not there (eg Gen 3)
b) Trick us into seeing nothing out of a real thing (eg Matt 28)
c) Even strong believers fell prey (eg Peter in Matt 16)
d) Result in doubt, disbelief, disobedient, denials, delusions
e) Peter says “prepare your minds for action” (1 Pet 1:13)

2. Satan’s perverted nature tempt our old self and body.
a) Lust of the flesh, eyes and pride of life (1 John 2:15-17)
b) Wear us down through trials and persecutions. (1 Thes 3:1-3)
c) Result in discontentment, distraction, discouragement, disappointment
d) HALT – Don’t let yourself be Hungry, Angry, Lonely and Tired.
e) Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. (Col 3:2)

3. Satan has a destructive character.
a) Satan tries to destroy us through our mind and our body.
b) He destroys relationship and disrupt harmony.
c) He perfected selfishness, favoritism, narrow-mindedness, lack of fellowship
d) Result in disengagement, discord, disassociation, division
e) Paul urged unity (1 Cor 1 :10-11. 12:18-25, John 17:20)

The serious threat of Satan’s dangerous devices is real. We are not to be ignorant about his schemes and we need to be strong in the Lord and put on the armor of God. We are encourage because our God have overcome them, and the one who is in us is greater than the one who is in the world. (1 John 4:4)