Satan Attack

True, not all sin is caused by Satan. Much sin is caused by our human nature--selfishness, self-direction, self-importance, pride, lust. Satan, because he understands human nature so well, creates situations when he detects a weakness in our character which will result in sin. He is sly and smart. Satan knows that a deceptive attack when we are alert and content will not be effective. It is when we are tired, stressed, or not feeling well that Satan becomes a formidable foe. I can only imagine how he sets sin traps then laughs victoriously when we walk full speed into them becoming hopelessly entangled.

No matter what the deceptive traps are, we can be victorious through Jesus in any and every situation. First of all, we must recall victories in past battles. Focus on past victories and praise the Lord. Instead of dwelling on what it wrong now and what might happen, we should take time to remember how God has protected us in the past. What a wonderful way to build confidence.

"You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world." 1 John 4:4 NIV

When we do this we will realize that those victories were won only because we totally depended on God to bring us through the difficult situations. The hymn "Victory in Jesus" says it well. "And somehow Jesus came and bro't to me the victory. Oh, victory in Jesus, my Savior, forever!"

"But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." 1Corintians 15:57 NIV

Next, we should not fret or worry. This is when Satan has a heyday. Fretting and worrying only make the problem bigger than it already is. Too often we succumb to unnecessary worry. Anxiety paralyzes us and makes it impossible to make wise decisions.

"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." Matthew 6:34 NIV

Peace, even in the midst of a battle, is possible when we trust in Jesus. The song "Under His Wings" says it well. "Under His wings, what a refuge in sorrow...Often when earth has no balm for my healing, there I find comfort and there I am blessed."

So whatever the trial, Christians must seek God, not fret, and remember times in the past when God has protected us. Then God will grant us peace and strength to successfully meet any challenge.

"For the Lord is good and his love endures forever;his faithfulness continues through all generations." Psalms 100:5 NIV

Lord, forgive my worrying and trying to make things right in my strength. You are an amazing God. I know that I can only have victory through your blessing and your power.