The Devil is a loser.
Text:
Matthew 14:22-36 and Mark 4:35-41
Yep, you heard that right — Satan is a loser.
But he’s a powerful and sneaky loser.
We always need to remember — Satan’s attacks are not like simple disagreements with other humans — because Satan is a spirit being.
So we’re in “Spiritual warfare”when we battle Satan.
Protecting ourselves from Satan requires special “battle gear.”
Paul gives us instructions … detailed instructions about how we are to battle Satan during his storms and afflictions.
Listen carefully to what Paul tells us in Ephesians 6:10-18:
The Whole Armor of God
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might.
Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.
For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.
Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.
Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace.
In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one;
and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God,
praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints…
Guaranteed victory, but …
I point out, unfortunately, not all Christians follow Paul’s instructions.
Many suffer great tragedies … great disappointments … even sin — when they fail to see that we’re only able to resist “in the power of His might.”
God’s power will give us the victory … guaranteed.
Paul is pretty plain when he says, “Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.”
“MAY BE”…
If you put on the whole armor, you are FULLY PROTECTED.
But, if you pick and choose what you’ll wear — Satan watches everything you do … he’ll see where you’re not protected — that will become “an opportune time” and place and means for him to strike.
At the first sign of a Satan-inspired storm … stop … look closely at your situation.
Be honest with yourself.
Can you, like Job, say your storm has nothing to do with your temptations and sin?
Turn to the Scriptures and begin putting on the WHOLE ARMOR OF GOD!!!
We have another promise from God to help us through Satan’s storms.
Check out 1 Corinthians 10.
It says
“So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!
No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind.
And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.
But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”
Satan cannot make you do anything!!!!
God will stand with you in Satan’s storms.
God will work His perfect purpose in these storms … and even Satan’s storms will prove to be for YOUR GOOD … and God’s glory.
Stay in His Word … read it … study it daily … listen to good preaching … fellowship with Christian friends … trust God … obey God.
Got walks beside you every step of the way!
Amen.
