“Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.” (Eph. 6:11)
What’s interesting about this verse is that the term “schemes” in Greek is “methodeía” where we get our English term “methods”. In short, this term conveys, a predictable method used in organized evil-doing (well-crafted trickery). This speaks volumes, does it not? So how can you avoid being tricked by the devil’s methods?
What’s interesting about this verse is that the term “schemes” in Greek is “methodeía” where we get our English term “methods”. In short, this term conveys, a predictable method used in organized evil-doing (well-crafted trickery). This speaks volumes, does it not? So how can you avoid being tricked by the devil’s methods?
Some pointers:
- You MUST be filled with God’s Spirit by surrendering to Jesus (John 3:3-8; Titus 3:5).
- Be consistent with your walk with God. You will not be perfect in the sense of being sinless. However, you CAN be perfect in faithfulness (Matt. 25:14-23).
- Living a crucified life must be a priority, if not, you will be susceptible to being tricked due to uncrucified flesh (Gal. 2:20).
- You must be disciplined. Paul once stated, “I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified” (1 Cor. 9:26-27). If the great Apostle Paul had this attitude, what should that mean for you and me?
- You must hate the world. Not to be confused with hating people; rather, hating the world system that leads people away from God (James 4:4; 1 John 2:15-17).
- Prayer must become a priority in your life. Not just a minute here or there. Spending significant time with Jesus uninterrupted. This positions you to hear from Him. During those times, He will frequently give words of knowledge, insight, that will help you avoid the well-crafted trickery of the devil. And He will speak clearly to what He is calling you to do (1 Thes. 5:17; John 10:27; 1 Tim. 2:1; Eph. 6:18).
- You must not just read the Word of God, but you must be absorbed by it. The best way to spot a fake is by knowing the real. Satan is a master deceiver and manipulator. However, Jesus and His Word is the truth. Know Him and His Word and you will avoid being deceived (Joshua 1:8; Psa. 1:2: 1 Tim. 4:13; 2 Tim. 2:15).
- Surround yourself around like-minded believers who love Jesus and display the fruit. They will help you grow and protect you when they see the thief coming (Philippians 2:1-2; Heb. 10:23-25).
- Love people from a spiritual-biblical foundation. In other words, do not let your emotions define love, allow the Bible to define love for you, then apply it (Matt. 22:37-39).
- Last but not least, worship Him daily!! Does not He inhabit the praises of His people (Psa. 22:3)?
