Don’t play “Deer in the Headlights” with the Devil’s Schemes

The enemy—-Satan and his demonic allies and authorities—- “prowls around like a roaring lion seeking someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8). He is like a hunter that has his bait and weapon set on you. A dedicated hunter uses the best tools for the destruction of his target. This includes crafting weapons, laying traps, using bait (which may even be the scent of desire), and he plans his attack very thoroughly. Unlike real hunters that usually go for a “kill shot,” where only the minimum use of ammunition is used, the Devil may kill you slowly over your life like a poison weakening your might. He is crafty, no matter how he comes at you. These schemes are not in the physical realm, although illness is certainly a tool against you, but “we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places” (Ephesians 6:12). Do not be surprised by this deadliness, as an unaware deer’s expression (“caught in the headlights”). Learn your weaknesses, which are the key points the Devil will attack you from. Live in the Spirit, which is not only where the “spiritual forces” live but also where God lives. This means dying to the flesh and putting on the Armor of God (see Ephesians 6:10-17). Also, you are not alone. Everyone is in the war, and your brothers and sisters need as much support as you do. Come at each other’s side and aid, to whatever weaknesses (targets) they wear, understanding that we are all wounded by others and ourselves. In the fight, Brian