The devil is a deceiver, a manipulator, and an accuser who seeks to separate us from God. His tactics are insidious, and he preys on our weaknesses, using temptation and adversity to lead us astray. Scripture warns us about his nature and his relentless pursuit of our downfall.
Who is the Devil?
The Bible describes the devil as “a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour” (1 Peter 5:8). He was once an angel of light, but because of his pride, he was cast down (Isaiah 14:12-15). Jesus calls him “the father of lies” (John 8:44), and Revelation 12:9 refers to him as “the deceiver of the whole world.” His ultimate goal is to destroy faith, break relationships, and turn people away from God.
How the Devil Attacks
- Through Temptation
The devil knows our weaknesses and presents temptations at our most vulnerable moments. If you’ve just left rehab, he will put an old dealer in your path. If you’re in recovery, he’ll surround you with old drinking buddies. If you’ve struggled with infidelity, an old flame may suddenly reappear. He did the same to Jesus, tempting Him in the wilderness after He had fasted for 40 days (Matthew 4:1-11). The devil strikes when we are weak, hoping we will fall. - Through Loved Ones
When he can’t reach us directly, the devil will work through those we love. He may cause strife in a godly relationship, leading to arguments and doubt. If you are in a strong, faith-based relationship, he will attempt to drive a wedge between you. In the book of Job, Satan attacked Job by destroying his family, his wealth, and his health (Job 1-2). He will use similar tactics to shake our faith. - By Stirring Up the Past
The devil uses our past against us, reminding us of our failures, sins, and mistakes. He wants to keep us trapped in guilt and shame so that we do not move forward in faith. However, God’s Word tells us, “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come” (2 Corinthians 5:17). The devil wants us bound by the past, but God calls us into a future of freedom. - By Attacking Those in Spiritual Leadership
If you are in a position of influence—whether a pastor, mentor, or godly example—Satan will seek to destroy your credibility. He knows that by taking down one strong believer, he can impact many. That’s why Paul warns, “Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil” (Ephesians 6:11). Leaders must remain vigilant and prayerful. - By Using Pain and Suffering
The devil will use hardship to turn us against God. He will whisper lies that God has abandoned us, that our suffering is meaningless, or that prayer is useless. But James 1:2-4 reminds us to “consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” God can use trials to strengthen us, while the devil wants to use them to destroy us.
Why Does the Devil Attack?
The devil despises anything that brings us closer to God. He attacks those who are striving for righteousness, seeking to keep them trapped in sin, doubt, and despair. He does not want believers to experience freedom in Christ because he thrives on bondage and destruction.
How to Overcome the Devil’s Attacks
- Stay Rooted in Scripture
Jesus defeated the devil’s temptations by quoting Scripture (Matthew 4:1-11). We must arm ourselves with the Word of God and use it as a weapon against the enemy (Ephesians 6:17). - Pray Without Ceasing
Prayer strengthens us and invites God’s power into our lives. “Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7). Prayer is a direct line to God’s protection and wisdom. - Surround Yourself with Godly Community
Isolation makes us vulnerable. Fellowship with other believers helps keep us accountable and provides encouragement. Proverbs 27:17 states, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” - Put on the Armor of God
Ephesians 6:10-18 instructs us to wear the full armor of God—truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and the Word—to stand against the devil’s schemes. - Trust in God’s Power
No matter how intense the battle, we must remember that God is greater than the enemy. “Greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world” (1 John 4:4). The devil can attack, but he cannot win if we stand firm in faith.
Conclusion
Spiritual warfare is real, and the devil will stop at nothing to pull us away from God. However, through prayer, faith, and reliance on Scripture, we can recognize his tactics and stand strong against his attacks. When challenges arise, trust in God’s promises and lean into His strength. Almost as important is having that one person in your life that will remind you of all of this when you feel too broken to remember that God loves you unconditionally, and your victory is already won. Amen.
Troy P Zehnder 