By Michael Youssef, Ph.D.

Read 2 Corinthians 11:3-4.

When we consider the weapons in Satan’s arsenal, deception has to be one of the deadliest. I believe there are seven ways he manipulates people as he attempts to keep them from walking in the Truth.

First, Satan convinces people to question the authority of God’s Word. He was thrown out of heaven and wants the same result for believers and unbelievers alike. So, he convinces us to turn the command of God into a dialogue—a debate—Is this really relevant for today?

Second, Satan goes to church. He actually seeks to infiltrate them. And when he does, he tricks people into accepting his standards by introducing lies, which dangerously resemble Truth.

Third, the devil pretends to be sympathetic. We see this when people look for a church to meet their needs. But no church, no program, and no pastor can meet the needs of a person’s soul. Only Jesus can do that. That is why the Bible says we must seek first God’s Kingdom and His righteousness, and then the Lord will meet all our needs (see Matthew 6:33).

Fourth, the devil is a master forger. Because Satan once lived and served in the throne room of God, he knows how to imitate God. Like Paul, we must discern between the cheap imitation and the genuine article (see Acts 13:8-10).

Fifth, Satan elevates celebrities. These influencers attract media attention everywhere they go and are very understanding and accommodating of sinful lifestyles, so people flock to them. That’s what Satan wants, so these are the sorts of people he elevates.

Sixth, the enemy of our souls holds up shiny lures before us in nearly every area of life. With drama and flair, he invites us to enjoy a swim in warm, comforting waters that turn out to be a frigid ocean of falsehood.

Finally, Satan never attacks from the front. He tempts us to commit so-called “socially acceptable” sins—gossip, unforgiveness, abdicating spiritual leadership, and the like. However, these “minor sins” can neutralize our testimony and our prayer life, stifle the Gospel, and destroy the unity of the church.

But thanks be to God, “the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world” (1 John 4:4)! So, call upon Him. Call upon the Spirit to empower you to not be ignorant of our enemy’s devices, designs, and tricks. He is faithful, and He will do it.

Prayer: Father, thank You that You have given me everything I need to live a life of godliness. I ask for wisdom and discernment to identify the lies of the enemy and help others to pursue Your Truth, too. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“But I am afraid that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent’s cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ” (2 Corinthians 11:3).

Learn more in Dr. Michael Youssef’s sermon series Know Your Real Enemy: LISTEN NOW

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