So the great dragon was cast out, that serpent of old, called the Devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world; he was cast to the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.
Matthew 24:24-25 (NKJV)
24 For false christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. 25 See, I have told you beforehand.
I’ve been reading the book of Revelations in recent times. I discovered that the power of the devil over humanity lies in deception, same way he deceived Eve in the garden of Eden.
As believers we are not to be caught unawares, because God has given us the tools to see through his antics by
1. The Word of God
Hebrews 4:12 (KJV) For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
2. The gifts of the Holy Spirit
1 Corinthians 12:10a (KJV) To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits
Ephesians 6:11 (NKJV)
11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
Wiles according to dictionary.com: 1.a trick, artifice, or stratagem meant to fool, trap, or entice; device. 2. artful or beguiling behavior. 3. deceitful cunning; trickery.
As we study the Word of God, we get to know our Father better and His expecations of us His children. The life of Jesus is a model for every believer, once we find ourselves thinking thoughts that do not line up with the word of God, we are threading on dangerous ground. Thought begets action.
Proverbs 4:23 (CEV)
23 Carefully guard your thoughts because they are the source of true life.
We also need to pray at all times, develop a lifestyle of prayer.
Prayer helps in building up our inner man
Ephesians 6:18 (NKJV)
Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints
Jude 20 (NKJV)
But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit
