INTRODUCTION:
Satan possesses great strength, yet he is not omnipotent. He exhibits wisdom, but falls short of being omniscient. While he may be present in our midst, he is not omnipresent. The Bible instructs us to stand firm against Satan in the name of Jesus Christ. To effectively do so, we must familiarize ourselves with his cunning strategies. Therefore, it is imperative to engage in thorough preparation against the schemes of Satan, fortifying ourselves against every trickery he may employ.
TODAY'S TOPIC:
PREPARE AGAINST SATAN
BIBLE TEXTS:
Now thanks be unto God, who always causeth us to triumph in Christ (2 Corinthians 2:14).
CONTROLLING THOUGHT:
Maintaining a positive mindset will always help in challenging times. God's promise is certain.
THE MESSAGE
I. OUR SAVIOR'S VICTORY OVER SATAN'S TEMPTATION (MATTHEW 4:1-11)
The Spirit led Jesus Christ into the wilderness to be tested. Jesus Christ steeled Himself for the trial by fasting and praying for forty days and nights. He also spent this time immersed in the study of scripture. On the fortieth day, Satan approached, employing his customary schemes in an attempt to sow seeds of doubt regarding God's word.
Satan utilized the same deceptive tactics he had employed on our ancestors, Adam and Eve.
However, Jesus remained steadfast in His faith and rebuked Satan with the power of God's word. Each time Satan tempted Him, Jesus responded with scripture, ultimately emerging victorious over temptation.
This victory demonstrated Jesus' unwavering commitment to God's will and His authority over evil.
Jesus' triumph over temptation serves as a powerful example for believers, showcasing the importance of relying on God's word and remaining resolute in faith.
It highlights the significance of spiritual preparation and the strength found in scripture during times of trial. By conquering temptation, Jesus displayed His divine nature and exemplified the path to overcoming the schemes of the enemy.
This victorious encounter underscores the pivotal role of scripture in combating doubt and standing firm in the face of adversity.
Satan utilized the same deceptive tactics he had employed on our ancestors, Adam and Eve.
I I. SATAN'S TACTICS
DIALOGUE:
"Did the Divine Being truly utter those words?"
RECOMMENDATIONS:
"I propose that you experiment with this to demonstrate that God's intention was not as literal as it appears."
INFLUENCE:
"He will persist in urging you to test his proposal, citing numerous biblical references, until you yield to his persuasion or he retreats from you."
I V. HOW TO CONQUER SATAN
Familiarize yourself with the teachings of the Bible (Matthew 22:29).
Utilize the scriptures to combat the Adversary (Matthew 4:1-11).
Speak in unknown languages when communicating with the God in the presence of the Adversary (1 Corinthians 14:7-15), paying special attention to verse 14.
Demonstrate unwavering faith when facing the Adversary (Matthew 21:22; John 14:12).
Confront the Adversary with certainty (Acts 3:6, 16).
Oppose him through your faith (Acts 16:18). At the mere mention of the name of Jesus Christ, every being must surrender (Philippians 2:9-11).
Remain watchful and attentive, keeping your mind focused on the teachings of the Bible to fend off the Adversary's strategies (1 Peter 5:8).
Pray constantly, seeking guidance and protection from God during spiritual battles (Ephesians 6:18).
Surround yourself with fellow believers for support and encouragement in the fight against the Adversary (Hebrews 10:24-25).
Recognize that the power of God within you surpasses any force the Adversary may bring against you (1 John 4:4).
Walk in the light of truth and righteousness, knowing that the Adversary cannot overcome those who stand firm in faith (Ephesians 6:13).
Seek solace in prayer and meditation, allowing God to direct your steps and shield you from the Adversary's assaults (Psalm 91:1-2).
Equip yourself with the armor of God, including the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit (Ephesians 6:10-18).
Rely on the promises of the Divine, assured that He will never abandon you in times of spiritual warfare (Deuteronomy 31:6).
Let love be your weapon against the Adversary, as perfect love drives out all fear (1 John 4:18).
Stand firm in your faith, deeply rooted in the truth of the Gospel, for in Him, you have triumph over the Adversary (1 Corinthians 15:57).
Be bold and courageous in your resistance against the Adversary, knowing that through Him who loves you, you are more than a victor (Romans 8:37).
Reject the temptations and falsehoods of the Adversary by holding fast to the promises and truths of God, for His word illuminates your path (Psalm 119:105).