What are the main things the devil uses to attack people and try to get them off course? I know temptation must be one of them, but are there others -- even some we might not think about? — N.G.H.
The devil has one main goal: to turn us away from God and instead make us his slaves. And he will do everything he possibly can to achieve this goal. This is why the Bible commands us to "Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes" (Ephesians 6:11).
Yes, temptation is certainly one of the devil's main weapons -- and it takes many different forms. He'll try, for example, to tempt us with sins of the flesh -- immorality, pleasure-seeking, destructive habits, and so forth. But if those don't work he'll tempt us with sins of the heart or mind -- evil thoughts, wrong motives, anger, jealousy, and so forth. He'll also attack us spiritually -- trying to fill us with doubts, attempting to convince us that God doesn't care about us, filling us with pride, and so forth.
How can we combat his schemes? The first step is to be sure that we have given our lives to Christ. When we come to Him we are no longer citizens of Satan's kingdom; we are now citizens of the Kingdom of God! Let this great truth strengthen you every day.
In addition, when Satan tempts you, recognize it for what it is: an attempt to turn you away from God. Then combat his lies with the truth of God's Word, and with prayer, and with the help of other believers. The Bible says, "Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you" (James 4:7).
PRIVACY
