Ephesians 6:10-12

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.  Put on the full armor of God so you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.  For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

We have an enemy that we cannot see.  This enemy is of the spiritual world.  How do we defend ourselves?  The ensuing list from Ephesians 6 tells us with this armor analogy:

            The belt of truth

            The breastplate of righteous

            Feet fitted with the readiness of the gospel of peace

            The shield of faith (which extinguishes the flaming arrows of the evil one)

            The helmet of salvation

            The sword of the Spirit (which is the word of God)

These are to help us stand against the devil’s schemes.  Let’s take a look at how the devil works.

In Genesis chapter three we get our first look at the enemy’s methods.  He uses three devices.  One, question the truth, “Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree in the garden’?”  Two, dispel the truth, “You will not surely die.”  Three, set a temptation, “For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God knowing good and evil.” 

Here’s an example of how it plays out today.  Everybody says that drugs are bad, but are they?  You surely won’t become addicted.  Look at all the fun your friends are having.  You don’t want to miss out.  Yes, the scheme is still the same, and we are just as vulnerable as Eve.  The way these lies are communicated is through suggestions, whispers in the ear, or through someone who has already bought the lie.  The devil is always scheming.  The plan is to steal, kill and destroy (See John 10:10). He and his helpers are constantly busy.  What lies and temptation is he setting before you?

I will continue this topic next week.