The Reality of Satan-5/7/2012

"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil." Eph 6:10-11

Today we tend only to speak of Satan in passing and then in vague terms. It is almost as if we do not think that he exists (which suits him just fine). We also think in terms of some red guy with horns, a pitchfork and a pointed tail. If only that were the case. Should he fit the stereotype, he would be easily identifiable, we would be able to see him coming and most likely avoid him.

The truth about him is that he is much more subtle than that. Though not called Satan at the time, we have come to understand that it was him that was referred to as "the serpent" in the Genesis account. In one simple conversation he introduced lies, deception, subtlety, manipulation, sin, evil, separation, destruction and death to mankind. These things and more can readily be seen to this day. More importantly, however, his actions in the Garden were not against man per se, but a strategic chess move on the board of eternity against God. We know from Scripture that Satan was once favored of God but was banished from heaven along with a third of the angels whom he had influenced to literally war against God. The battle still wages.

Beloved, God knows that we are being used as pawns by Satan. Satan is attempting to turn us away from the very One and the very reason we were created, to glorify God. Every time he influences an individual to operate outside the will of the Father, he accomplishes another move. God, however, has equipped us for this fight. He has supplied all we need to protect ourselves from his attack. But He has done so in a way that causes us to make a choice just as Adam and Eve did in the Garden and as man has done from that time. We must put on the armor to be protected. Failure to do so leaves us vulnerable and in prime pawn position. Let us not allow ourselves to be used in the fight against God. Let us fight for God. The good news is that the battle has already been won.

Rejoicing in the Lord,

Lee