WARNING: The Reality of Satan’s Influence and Impact

Warning: The reality of Satan’s influence and impact on our lives.

I hope you are wondering why would I write an article dedicated to Satan? Because evil is the most undermining thing that can cause people to leave their faith, or worse yet, not repent to be saved from the rapture and tribulation to come.

So, why should people believe in Satan’s existence? Because he influences individuals toward evil, and causes Christians to falter in their faith. So, who is Satan?

The figure of Satan is an antagonist whose existence sparks both fear and unfortunately, curiosity. As Christians, we grapple with the reality of evil, the role of Satan, and the impact he has on humanity, but especially our lives.

It’s time you learn about what is causing all the problems in your life and the world. It is Satan.

The Bible’s Books Regarding Satan

The Bible unequivocally affirms the existence of Satan. From Genesis to Revelation, his presence is woven through, and here are a few passages to help you understand

Genesis 3: The serpent in the Garden of Eden, cunningly tempting Adam and Eve, the serpent represents Satan, the adversary who seeks to undermine God’s plan.

Job 1-2: Satan challenges Job’s faithfulness, causing him immense suffering. Satan’s role as the accuser is evident, and even though Job argues and battles with God about his suffering, he stays faithful to God.

Matthew 4: Satan tempts Jesus in the wilderness, revealing his deceptive nature, and attempts to cause Jesus to stray from His path, without success.

Ephesians 6:12: “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.” Here, Paul acknowledges the spiritual battle involving Satan and his forces.

Satan’s Evil Tactics

Does Satan exert influence on humanity? Absolutely! Look around and see how much evil is growing in the world, and it comes from only one source… Satan!

Deception: Satan disguises himself as an angel of light as in 2 Corinthians 11:14. His lies distort truth, leading people astray. How many people do you know that try to dissuade you from believing or accepting Jesus Christ? Lot’s I’ll bet. I will tell you they knowingly or unknowingly have Satan, not Jesus at their side.

Temptation: Like the serpent in Eden, Satan entices with promises of power, pleasure (the strongest one), or un-biblical knowledge. He easily exploits human desires from those who are not guided by the Holy Bible. The pleasure of the flesh are the biggest draw for evil, especially when we are not able to control our feelings and emotions.

Pornography, being the biggest because it is on TV and social media every day and right in your face. You should start being more discerning, and smart about what you read online and watch on TV and online videos. Don’t get trapped!

Accusation: Satan accuses believers before God in Revelation 12:10, and magnifies our failures, fostering guilt and doubt. And doubt can be a very strong deterrent to Christian thinking, belief and faith.

Division: Satan sows discord among believers, weakening their unity (1 Corinthians 1:10), as is event in the falling of many churches, and preachers in recent years. The news is always flooded with false preachers and the writings of false teachers spewing misdirection of the Holy Bible to cause you to fall away from your belief and faith.

Satan and Evil Actions

Satan influence permeates sinful acts by:

Indirect Influence: Satan’s fallen angels and demonic forces carry out his schemes. They exploit human weaknesses, fostering hatred, anger, violence, and rebellion. How many times have you done something wrong or bad and wondered why, and then felt really upset?

Spiritual Warfare: Ephesians 6:12 reminds us that our struggle isn’t merely against earthly foes. Satan orchestrates spiritual battles, using humans to enhance his agenda to rule the world and eliminate God. Satan wants you to fall from God’s graces by causing you to go against the words of the Holy Bible.

As Christians, we have to stay strong in God’s word to be able to resist Satan’s pull and grasp. Social media and TV movies make it very hard to be aware, especially when we get caught up in the violence, hate, anger and killing portrayed in almost every movie today, and the hate and anger spewed on social media and music.

Christians and Doubt

Why do some Christians waver in their faith? Are you on this list?

Intellectual Challenges: Skeptics question Satan’s existence, attributing evil solely to human nature or societal factors. But denying Satan’s reality ignores biblical testimony as explained above in “The Biblical Books” section above.

Cultural Shifts: Modern secularism dismisses spiritual realities. Christians may downplay Satan’s role, focusing on self-improvement and pride rather than spiritual warfare. Pride is one of the biggest problems in society and against God’s word.

Personal Struggles: When Christians face suffering, doubt, or unanswered prayers, Satan exploits vulnerability. He whispers, “God doesn’t care” or “There is no God,” and many other words to move you from God’s path for you. Are you an Eve or an Adam, who believes what she or he is told is told?

Guarding Our Christian Faith in Jesus Christ

How can believers stand firm in their Christian faith and belief? What about you?

Know the Enemy: Study scripture’s portrayal of Satan, and recognize his tactics and be vigilant as told in 1 Peter 5:8. Don’t ever think, Satan can’t get to me, because if your not really careful he can.

Prayer and Armor: Ephesians 6:10-18 outlines “Spiritual Armor”, which is truth, righteousness, faith, salvation, the Bible and prayer. This will help you to engage in daily spiritual warfare and strengthen your faith and belief. Pray daily and when you are not sure or feel troubled.

Community: Isolation weakens faith. Connect with true fellow Christians, and encouraging and pray for one another to strengthen your faith and belief. If you don’t have a church find other local Christians and try gathering together at someones home or local park.

Resist: James 4:7 tells us to resist the devil, and look to Jesus for salvation and hope. Only Jesus can free you from Satan’s grasp. Pray and accept Jesus in your life, and ask His Holy Spirit to grow your internal faith.

I did and it made a significant difference in my life! INTERESTED to know more? Email me at john@ourdividedworld.com and I will tell you how.

The Ultimate Victory

Despite Satan’s influence, God’s victory is assured. Revelation 20:10 describes Satan’s final defeat in the end days of the Tribulation that is yet to come.

A Balanced Perspective

You should believe in Satan’s existence, but don’t obsess over him. Focus only on Jesus Christ who is the victor over sin and death.

Acknowledge Satan’s schemes, but cling to God’s for protection and strength. As we navigate life’s trials, let faith triumph over doubt and evil.

In this struggle, we stand firm, knowing that Jesus who conquered the grave walks with us. Satan exists, but our Savior reigns supreme and always will.

Recognizing Satan’s Influence And Techniques

As Christians our lives are crucial for spiritual discernment. Here are some insights to help you identify his presence:

Sin Patterns: Reflect on your actions and attitudes. If you find yourself consistently practicing sin—whether in thought, word, or deed—Satan’s influence may be at work. 1 John 3:7-12 warns us that habitual sin indicates a strong connection to the evil one.

Are you a habitual sinner? Pray for help and guidance.

Negative Emotions: Satan often targets feelings of depression, anxiety, rejection, resentment, unforgiveness, disappointment, loneliness, and even thoughts of self-destruction or suicide, which can be signs of Satan’s grasp on your emotions. These negative emotions can cloud your judgment and distance you from God.

You need to fight to get away from negative thoughts and praying to Jesus is a great start!

Spiritual Warfare: Understand that we are engaged in a spiritual battle which in Ephesians 6:12 reminds us that our struggle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces of darkness. When you encounter persistent spiritual opposition, it is most likely Satan’s influence.

Deception and Lies: Satan is the father of lies as told in John 8:44. If you find yourself believing falsehoods about God, your identity, or your purpose, be very aware and alert. His deceptive tactics aim to distort truth and lead you away from God’s path.

If you are not sure about what you hear or read about Jesus, God or faith, be sure to read your Bible to either confirm or deny those stories.

Strained Relationships: Satan seeks to divide and destroy relationships. If you notice strife, bitterness, or discord in your interactions with others, consider whether his influence is at play, and realize he wants to disrupt unity and love.

Fighting with anyone is a sure sign of Satan’s influence. Prayer and Jesus can help you find your way!

Spiritual Emptiness: Feeling distant from God, struggling with prayer, or experiencing a lack of spiritual vitality can indicate Satan’s attempts to hinder your relationship with the Lord. When you feel that way it is time to pick up your Bible and read Psalms, Proverbs or James.

If you are struggling with your faith it may be time to find like-minded Christians in your church or neighborhood to help you back on your path! You may be surprised at how many will help.

Thoughts Contrary to God’s Word: Pay attention to your thought life. If you consistently entertain thoughts that oppose God’s Word or undermine your faith, recognize them as potential footholds for Satan.

Remember, that recognizing Satan’s influence is not about living in fear, but about being spiritually aware. As you grow in discernment and understanding, rely on prayer, scripture, and the power of the Holy Spirit to resist his schemes. Seek God’s wisdom and guidance, and trust in His victory over evil and you will not fail.

Whenever Satan slips in my thoughts, and he does occasionally, I ask for the Lord to remove those thoughts and fill me with the Holy Spirit! And that happens very quickly.

Resisting Satan’s Influence

This is essential for maintaining spiritual strength and discernment. Here are some practical steps to help you stand firm:

Know the Word of God: Regularly study the scripture which provides wisdom, guidance, and the truth needed to combat Satan’s lies. Jesus Himself resisted temptation by quoting scripture when face-to-face with the devil’s schemes.

Prayer and Relationship with God: Cultivate a vibrant prayer life, and spend time in God’s presence, seeking His guidance, protection and strength. The continuous influence of the Holy Spirit flows from our relationship with God through prayer, and meditation, and can help you battle sin and evil.

Community and Accountability: Surround yourself with fellow believers. Engage in a Christian community, where you can encourage one another, pray together, and hold each other accountable. Isolation makes us vulnerable to Satan’s attacks.

Recognize His Tactics: Be aware of Satan’s strategies—deception, temptation, accusation, and division. When you recognize his influence, actively resist as told in James 4:7 which encourages us to resist the devil, submitting to God, which causes Satan to flee. And I can attest to that in my life.

Trust in God’s Victory: Remember that God has already defeated Satan through Jesus’ sacrifice. Trust in His promises. Even in spiritual battles, we can overcome by relying on God’s strength and spiritual armor.

Stay vigilant, keep your spiritual armor on, and trust in the One who conquers evil. Remember: Prayer keep you strong, and if you need a prayer suggestions, please let us know.

WE WELCOME any comments, questions or thoughts, please let us know in the comments box below or email us directly at the emails below.

Blessings to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

H John & Jean
Our Divided World Ministry
john@ourdividedworld.com
jean@ourdividedworld.com
https://ourdividedworld.com