How to Stand Against the Devil’s Schemes

10/28/21 – 10/31/21

Battling Satan

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  10/29/21

As we fight against unseen foes this side of heaven, we must take hold of Truth. Scripture has invaluable instructions for us to equip us in our battles with Satan.

First, remember the victory is yours. Jesus saved us completely on the cross and has provided everything we need to live victorious lives. Even now, we are seated “in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ” (Ephesians 1:3).

Second, lay down your life. As James 4:7 says, “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” When we surrender our life and will to God, we will live righteously for Him and show Satan he holds no sway.

Third, each morning, close any doors in your heart that are susceptible to sin by humbling yourself before God—for without Him, we can do nothing (see John 15:5-8).

Fourth, put on your battle gear, the armor of God—both the uniform and the weapons (see Ephesians 6:10-17).

Fifth, praise the Lord. Though it may be hard to do when facing trials, when we need to put Satan in his place, praise is a sure way to defeat him (see Acts 16:25-26).

Sixth, pray for your enemies. One of the most difficult things to do is to pray for those who have wronged us. Yet, Jesus instructed us, “[L]ove your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44). We show the enemy that we belong to Christ and that he is defeated when we model the grace and mercy of our Father God.

Seventh, set your heart on heaven with Christ. As you do, the Holy Spirit will so work in your life that you will reflect the glory that is coming to Satan’s horror (see 2 Corinthians 3:18).

When we obey these instructions, we will experience peace and joy, even in trials, for we know the devil is defeated and cannot bring us down.

Prayer: Father, help me remember these Truths so that I will not be brought down by the tactics of the enemy. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“Praise be to the LORD my Rock, who trains my hands for war, my fingers for battle” (Psalm 144:1).