Spiritual Warfare – Knowing Our Adversary

To war effectively, knowledge of the enemy is necessary. How else can we resist him? Your wartime mindset must include knowledge of enemy and his tactics: The first step toward victory is realizing we are called to a different standard of living. Ephesians 5:11, "Take no part in unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them."

Let’s us expose Satan's aim and his strategies according to the scriptures.

1. He is the Father of lies; therefore he is opposed to truth. John 8:44
   Jesus said that when he speaks, lies are his native language. His nature is falsehood! He only speaks the truth in order to deceive.
2. He casts doubt on God's goodness. Genesis 3:1-5
   He destroys the obedience of faith.
3. He hinders evangelism efforts. 1 Thessalonians. 2:18
   He opposes the truth reaching and converting people.
4. He imitates signs and wonders. 2 Thessalonians 2:9; Mark 13:22
5. He blinds the minds of unbelievers. 2 Corinthians. 4:4
6. He misuses Scripture. Matthew 4:6
7. He takes advantage of unresolved anger. 2 Corinthians 2:11; Ephesians 4:27
8. He distorts and prevents effective Gospel ministry. Acts 13:8-9
9. He causes people to stumble over bad Christian attitudes. 2 Timothy 2:24-26
10. He exploits a lack of understanding. Matthew 22:29
11. He imitates religious roles. 2 Corinthians 11:14-15, Revelation 2:9
12. He attacks faith. 1 Thessalonians 3:5; 2 Corinthians 11:3
13. He causes dissension over doctrine and causes rifts. Romans. 16:17-20
14. He tempts saints with sexual allurements. 1 Corinthians 7:5
15. He promotes pride. 1 Timothy 3:6

James confirms that we are called to live by a different standard when he says “anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.”

Victory over the enemy comes to those who humble themselves before God. James 4:6, 7 “But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble." “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”