In today’s world, talk of the devil often sounds old-fashioned or superstitious. Yet, the Bible is crystal clear: we have an active, intelligent enemy who seeks to deceive, destroy, and draw us away from God. Pretending he doesn’t exist only makes us more vulnerable to his attacks.

“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” – 1 Peter 5:8 

We Have an Active Enemy Who Seeks to Destroy

Satan’s mission is destruction—of faith, peace, families, purity, and purpose. Jesus warned us plainly:

“The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” — John 10:10 

The devil opposes everything good because goodness reflects God’s nature. He especially targets believers who are growing in faith or advancing God’s kingdom.

We Give the Devil Power by Following His Agendas

Satan has no authority over a believer who stands firm in Christ. But when we agree with his lies, follow worldly desires, or disobey God, we open doors for him to influence our thoughts, emotions, and circumstances.

“Do not give place to the devil.” – Ephesians 4:27 (NKJV)

When we tolerate sin, harbor unforgiveness, or entertain fear, we unknowingly cooperate with his agenda. The enemy cannot force us to sin, but he can tempt, manipulate, and deceive us into doing his work for him.

He Comes After the Word of God

One of the devil’s main tactics is to steal the Word of God from our hearts before it can produce fruit. In the parable of the sower, Jesus explained:

“When anyone hears the word of the kingdom, and does not understand it, then the wicked one comes and snatches away what was sown in his heart.” — Matthew 13:19

Satan knows that the moment we believe and act on God’s Word, we step into power. That’s why he works tirelessly to sow doubt, distraction, and discouragement—to keep us from embracing our identity in Christ.

“Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.” – James 4:7 (NKJV)

Lies and Deception: The Devil’s Key Strategy

Jesus called Satan “the father of lies” (John 8:44). His entire strategy is built on twisting truth—just as he did in the Garden of Eden. He mixes just enough truth to sound reasonable but subtly leads us off the path of righteousness.

He whispers lies like:

• “God isn’t really with you.”

• “You’ll never change.”

• “This sin isn’t that bad.”

• “Following God will make you miserable.”

These lies are designed to distort your view of God, your worth, and your authority as His child.

Common Lies and Strategies of Deception

Here are a few ways the devil often operates today:

When we recognize lies and replace them with truth, we break the devil’s grip.

How to Detect Something Demonic

The enemy often hides behind subtle influences rather than overt evil. Here are a few helpful signs of demonic influence:

1. Confusion and fear – God brings peace and clarity; the enemy brings torment and dread. (2 Timothy 1:7)

2. Division and strife – Satan loves to divide relationships and communities. (James 3:16)

3. Compulsion or bondage – When something feels controlling, dark, or addictive, it’s not from God. (John 8:34–36)

4. Hatred of truth – Demonic influences resist Scripture and godly counsel. (John 3:20)

5. Counterfeit light – The devil can appear “good” to disguise evil motives. (2 Corinthians 11:14)

When you sense these patterns, stop and pray. Ask the Holy Spirit for discernment and protection.

How to Draw Near to God and Resist the Devil

The Bible gives us a clear battle plan:

“Submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.” – James 4:7–8 (NKJV)

Practical steps to resist:

• Pray daily – Keep your spiritual armor on (Ephesians 6:10–18).

• Stay in the Word – The truth of Scripture exposes lies and strengthens faith.

• Guard your mind – Be mindful of what you allow through media, music, and conversations.

• Walk in community – Isolation is dangerous. Stay connected to fellow believers.

• Praise and worship – Darkness cannot remain where God is exalted.

When you draw near to God, His presence drives out fear, confusion, and deception. You don’t fight for victory—you fight from victory, because Jesus already won.

“And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.” – Revelation 12:11 (NKJV)

Resources to Learn More

• Bible Gateway — New King James Version: https://www.biblegateway.com/versions/New-King-James-Version-NKJV-Bible/
• “The Screwtape Letters” by C.S. Lewis
• “Victory Over the Darkness” by Neil T. Anderson
• “The Bondage Breaker” by Neil T. Anderson
• “The Armor of God” study by Priscilla Shirer
• Isaiah Saldivar interview with Ashley Jones – Former Witch and now Evangelist – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M5RP9swf0NA
• Michael Knowles Interview with John Ramirez – Former High level Santorini/Satanist and now Evangelist – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I4-H7fQInmg
• Interview with Jenny Joy – Former Witch and now Serious Deliverance Minister / Exorcist – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qCHJQKTwk6k

Final Encouragement

Don’t fear the devil—be aware and alert.

You have authority in Christ to overcome every scheme of the enemy.

“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.” – Ephesians 6:10 (NKJV)

You belong to the One who already crushed the serpent’s head. Stand firm in faith, and no weapon formed against you shall prosper.