Speak Against the Enemy

Ephesians 6:12 GWT “This is not a wrestling match against a human opponent. We are wrestling with rulers, authorities, the powers who govern this world of darkness, and spiritual forces that control evil in the heavenly world.”  

One principal way Satan wages war against Christians, apart from sin, is passivity (acceptance of what happens, without active response or resistance). That is why the Apostle Peter urges us, “Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour” (1Peter 5:8 NLT). If you have ever witnessed a hungry lion devour its prey that is a picture of what Satan is out to do to people. And he will use things like pleasure, power, pressures, possessions, passions, and people to do it. Apostle Paul tells us to be on guard “so that Satan will not outsmart us. For we are familiar with his evil schemes” (2 Corinthians 2:11 NLT). How can you defend yourself? Neil Anderson says, “Our defense against direct attacks by the evil one is to speak aloud God’s truth.” Why speak God’s truth aloud to Satan? Because he needs to hear the truth that overrides his lies. When you are under Satan’s attack, act on James 4:7: “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” Take these two powerful steps: First, talk to God before engaging the Enemy. “Call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee” (Psalm 50:15). Second, talk to the Enemy. And keep it short and authoritative! “Satan, in the overpowering Name of Jesus Christ, I command you to cease every activity against me now. Leave and do not return!” Will he obey? You have submitted and resisted in faith; he has no option but obey!