But deliver us from evil (the evil one). Matthew 6:13b
Are the devil, Satan, and demons real? Is there a real war going on in the heavenlies over our faith? I think all of us would answer a resounding, “Yes!” You can’t turn on the news or read or watch any media source without seeing the effects of evil on our culture. Visit a prison, an orphanage, a home for unwed mothers, an abortion clinic, the streets of the homeless and you will often find the results of demonic forces and evil.
C.S.Lewis said, “There are two equal and opposite errors into which our race can fall about the devils, one is to disbelieve in their existence. The other is to believe, and to feel an excessive and unhealthy interest in them. They themselves are equally pleased by both errors and hail a materialist or a magician with the same delight.’
Jesus said we must ask God to protect us from the evil.one. Satan tries to attack us on all levels. What we see. What we hear. What we do or don’t do. He loves to attack us physically and through pain, our fears and anxieties. Thankfully Jesus not only asked us to pray for protection and deliverance from evil, but He shows us how to defeat and be victorious over evil.
Ephesians 6:11 tells us to -put on the whole armor of God, that we may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. We must be aware of his schemes in order to stand against them. Test your thoughts and actions against the character and actions of Jesus. What would Jesus do, say, or believe.
1 Peter 5:8 says we should be sober-minded; and watchful for our adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. I don’t know about you but just the thought of facing a lion, roaring or not, has me running to Jesus for protection and deliverance.
And finally in James 4:7 , James gives us the way to victory over the devil when he says, submit, (surrender in faith), yourselves to God. Then, resist, fight back, stand firm, against the devil, and he will flee from you. Fight back with scripture as Jesus did. Speak the name of Jesus over your temptation or fear. Burst out in a song of praise to, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Whatever it takes, resist, dress yourself in God’s armor daily and be alert to the enemy’s tactics! Most importantly keep your focus on Jesus who has already defeated Satan on the cross and will enable you to be victorious.
I remember the quip from my youth, “If in doubt, leave it out.” I believe we need to Stop, Drop to our knees, and Check it out! There is always a reason something doesn’t feel right. Are you hearing lies, feeling false guilt, doubting the power of God? PRAY, RESIST, STAND FIRM ON THE WORD!
For Yours, GOD, is the kingdom, power and glory forever. Amen!
Journey with Joyce 