In order to handle Satan’s attacks, believers must stand in unity on God’s Word, the foundation of our faith. At the same time, we must not embrace unity at the expense of truth. Unity without truth may look impressive, but it’s fostered by the father of lies (John 8:44) and rejects God’s truth (Romans 1:18). Scripture emphatically distinguishes between lies and truth (Romans 3:4). Satan’s lie was powerful enough to persuade sinless Adam and Eve to commit sin (Gen. 3:4-6). Thankfully, though, God’s truth is powerful enough to sanctify sinners (John 17:17). Scripture says, “We don’t want Satan to outsmart us. We know how he does his evil work”(2 Corinthians 2:11 NIV). As a deceiver, he shoots his arrows marked with “confusion,” “turmoil,” “depression,” “disillusionment,” “conflicts,” “divisiveness,” etc. That’s why Paul said, “pick up the shield of faith. With it, you can put out all the flaming arrows of the evil one” (Ephesians 6:16 NIV). Finally, Peter reminds us, “Be watchful and control yourselves. Your enemy the devil is like a roaring lion. He prowls around looking for someone to swallow up. Stand up to him. Remain strong in what you believe… (1 Peter 5:8-9a NIV). Thus, our strong faith/belief in the Lord’s Word will make us victorious in our battles with Satan (see also Matt. 4:1-11).
Blessings!
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