Ancient Foe

And the great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world—he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him….Then the dragon became furious with the woman and went off to make war on the rest of her offspring, on those who keep the commandments of God and hold to the testimony of Jesus. ~ Revelation 12:9,17

Satan is a terrifying enemy, and we would be wise not to underestimate him.

Peter warns us to be watchful of him:

Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. ~ 1 Peter 5:8

Jesus warns us Satan’s words cannot be trusted:

You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies. ~ John 8:44

Paul warns us not to give opportunity to the devil. After all, he will take advantage of it!

And give no opportunity to the devil. ~ Ephesians 4:27

Satan is indeed a formidable foe, and yet when he clashes with good, he falls. He is not irresistible.

 Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world ~ 1 Peter 5:9

Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. ~ James 4:7

 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. ~ Ephesians 6:11

Satan is cunning, deceptive, and active in this world. But the Lord holds final victory. Darkness is always chased away when God’s light is shined upon it.

May we each learn to resist the devil, knowing that the One who stands with us is far greater than anything the devil can scheme.

Photo by Elimende Inagella on Unsplash