Satan is...

The Devil
-lies (John 8:44)
-tempts (Matthew 4:1-3)
-disguises (2 Corinthians 11:14-15)
-sifts (Luke 22:31-32)
-snatches (Luke 8:12)
-blinds (2 Corinthians 4:4)
-enslaves (2 Timothy 2:25-26)
-destroys (1 Peter 5:8)

God is the identity-reveler where Satan is the identity-deceiver. Satan is powerful. Often times we allow him to have victory in our lives. He knows us very well and is the king of manipulation. He knows our weaknesses and often times will trigger thoughts and actions in our weakest of moments. He is a liar and deceiver. He disguises himself because he knows Scripture so well, but he takes it out of context. This is why it is so important for us as believers to know the Word of God. Ultimately the devil tries to destroy us through temptation as a stumbling block and make us slip in any way. But God uses temptation to develop us as a stepping stone. Satan hates those that make the Kingdom of God grow. It is a compliment in our lives if we have opposition from Satan because it means we are doing something right. And usually, our biggest temptations come right before some of the most triumphant victories in our lives. In fact, having head on collisions with the devil is a great thing. Pastor Steven Furtick says, "If you haven't had a head on collision with the devil recently, it may be because you are heading in the same direction." That is a convicting phrase. 


But we sometimes give the devil too much credit. He is powerful, but our God created him...and defeated him. Romans 8:31 says, "If God is for us, who can be against us?" Satan can only speak against you what God has spoken for you. He has no original thought. In order to fight a spiritual enemy, you need spiritual weaponry. He can be easily defeated if we use the Word of God...if we stand firm on its truth...if we implant it in our heart and minds...meditating on the promises of God. The more we are Spirit-filled, the more we are able to withstand temptation and glorify God. Ephesians 6:10-13 "Finally, be strong in the Lord, and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, that you may be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the full armor of God, that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything to stand firm."