Recognizing the Real Enemy (Ephesians 6:12)
As believers, we often wonder why God allows the devil to remain active. Scripture assures us that Adonai Elohim (God) will one day cast Satan into the lake of fire along with all whose names are not in the Book of Life (Matthew 25:41, Revelation 20:10).
For now, however, God permits the enemy to operate. His purpose is beyond our full understanding, but His wisdom is perfect. In Luke 10:19, Yahusha (Jesus) tells us we already have authority over the enemy. Satan is defeated—yet our walk requires endurance and obedience—as ‘we walk away from victory’.
Why God Allows Satan for a Season
It would seem logical for God to destroy the enemy immediately. Yet His plan involves allowing temptation, trials, and resistance to shape our faith and bring Him glory.
Revelation 20:7–10 reveals that Satan will be released for a short time after 1,000 years to deceive nations again. God’s control remains absolute. He limits the enemy’s power, using even spiritual warfare for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28).
Understanding the Enemy’s Tactics
Before any battle, a wise soldier studies the enemy’s strategy. 1 Peter 5:8 warns us: “Be alert! Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”
Satan uses fear, lies, and temptation to target the weak. He stirs rebellion against God’s commands and manipulates culture through deceptive ideologies. He has been influencing nations, changing laws, and distorting morality in the name of progress.
Satan’s Limited Authority and Final Judgment
The Bible calls Satan “the ruler of the power of the air” (Ephesians 2:2). His influence reaches media, politics, and society—but his authority is temporary.
In John 12:31, Yahusha declares: “Now is the judgment of this world; now the ruler of this world will be cast out.” We overcome him through the blood of the Lamb and the Word of our testimony (Revelation 12:11).
Learning from Job, Joseph, and Paul
The story of Job shows that Satan must seek God’s permission before afflicting believers (Job 1:12). Joseph’s betrayal led to his promotion in Egypt (Genesis 50:20). Paul’s “thorn in the flesh” was allowed by God for his spiritual growth (2 Corinthians 12:7–10).
These examples teach us that trials are not signs of abandonment—they are opportunities for God’s glory to be revealed.
How the Enemy Operates Today
Satan uses people, objects, and places to influence believers. In Judges 16, Delilah betrayed Samson. In Matthew 7:15, Yahusha warned of false prophets who appear as sheep but are wolves inside.
The devil also corrupts technology. Social media, pornography, and online distractions are powerful tools he uses to weaken faith. Ephesians 5:11 instructs us: “Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.”
Guarding Your Relationships and Environments
2 Corinthians 6:14 tells us not to be unequally yoked. Your closest relationships can either strengthen or weaken your walk with Christ.
Ask yourself: “Do the people around me bring me closer to salvation or push me toward destruction?” Choose fellowship that builds faith, not environments that fuel sin.
Standing in God’s Armor
We cannot fight spiritual battles in our own strength. Ephesians 6:10–18 teaches us to put on the full armor of God—truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, the Word, and prayer.
James 4:7 reminds us: “Submit yourselves to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”
Living with Victory and Confidence
Romans 8:37–39 assures us that nothing—neither angels, demons, death, nor life—can separate us from the love of God in Christ Yahusha. The enemy’s attacks cannot defeat us if we remain in Him.
John 3:16–17 reminds us that God sent His Son not to condemn the world but to save it. This victory is already ours.
Final Encouragement
Satan is real, but his power is limited. His strategies are predictable, and his end is certain. We are more than conquerors through Christ. Revelation 21:5 declares: “Behold, I am making all things new!”
Hold fast to the Word, stand firm in faith, and remember that the battle belongs to the Lord.
Prayer
Oh Holy Spirit, open my heart and mind so that I will not be ignorant of the enemy’s devices. Strengthen me to stand firm and prevent the devil from gaining an advantage over my life. In Jesus Christ’s (Yahusha’s) name, Amen..
Further Reading
John 12:31; John 14:30; John 16:11; Matthew 9:4; 1 Corinthians 2:11; Matthew 24:30 ;Revelation 20:7-10 ;2 Corinthians 6:14-16; 1 Timothy 5:22; Ephesians 5;Matthew 6:23; 1 Corinthians 5; Hebrews 2:14; 1 John 5:18 ; Isaiah 65:17 ;1 Thessalonians 4:16
