Putting On The Armour God Provides

While writing to a group of Christians the apostle Paul told them to be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. How were they to do this? He told them to put on the whole armor of God so they would be able to stand against the strategies of the devil. When we are being tempted to return to our old ways or are being complacent about following the ways of the Lord, we need to be aware that we are giving the enemy ground where he can attack us and entice us back to our old ways. 

King David was a man after God’s own heart and the devil was out to get him.  At a time when his country was at war David decided to take off his armour and rest.  At this time, when his guard was down, the devil saw an opportunity to attack David and cause him much grief. (Read: 2 Samuel 11) The devil is an opportunist, and he prowls around looking for someone to destroy. 

Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. (1 Peter 5:8 NIV)

Victory over the devil begins by having knowledge of his ways through meditation on the Scriptures.  Jesus told us plainly that the devil comes to steal, kill, and destroy those who are made in the image of God.  We can be certain that what the devil tempts us with will bring pleasure for a moment, but heartache for a lifetime. 

He was a murderer from the beginning and does not stand in the truth because there is no truth in him. Whenever he tells a lie, he speaks from his own nature, because he is a liar and the father of lies. (John 8:44b NASB)

When confronted with the devil’s temptations, the Lord Jesus stood firm and quoted the Scriptures. We also can defeat the devil’s enticements by using the same method that Jesus did.

Prayer: Gracious God, When the devil comes around seeking to tempt me, strengthen me to uphold Your Word and stand firm in obedience to what You say.  Amen

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