In any kind of sports or competition, there are opponents; competing with one another for a common prize. They train, exercise, practice and drill. They want to be the best they can be in order to win the prize. In addition to the physical aspects of this preparation, they must also study their opponent. They must learn the moves and skills of their opponent. They know that in order to win against their opponent, they must know all there is to know about this opponent.
As we go through this life, we have an opponent; an enemy. This enemy fights us daily for the prize: our soul. He wants to defeat us no matter what. He will stop at nothing to gain that victory over us. Should we not be diligent in learning the tactics of the enemy of our souls?
"Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:" (1 Peter 5:8).
"The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly." (John 10:10).
"for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night." (Revelation 12:10).
"When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it." (John 8:44).
"And these are they by the way side, where the word is sown; but when they have heard, Satan cometh immediately, and taketh away the word that was sown in their hearts." (Mark 4:15).
"And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him" (Revelation 12:9).
These are just a few Scriptures which show us who our enemy is. He is a thief, who comes to steal, kill and destroy. He steals our joy, peace, hope and strength. He will destroy us if we allow him to. He is an accuser of the brethren. He will falsely accuse us. He will lie to us and about us. He steals the Word of God from us; causing us to be powerless. He knows that we can use the Word to defeat him, so if he can steal it from us, he has stolen a powerful tool from us. He is called a dragon and serpent. He is a deceiver.
Looking at these descriptions and characteristics of him, we can determine that he is not our friend. He is not on our side. He does nothing to benefit us. He is only out to hurt and destroy us. Why would anyone want to follow him? There is no good in him.
God is love, peace, joy, hope, and kind. He helps us in time of trouble. He hears us when we pray. He answers our prayers. He protects us. He forgives us of sin. He is a friend that sticks closer than a brother. He is our rock and strong tower. He is our deliverer. He gave us His only Son, Jesus to die for our sins. He is our everything.
Looking at these descriptions and characteristics of God, we can determine that He is all good all the time. He is on our side. He only benefits us. He is our life. Why would anyone not want to follow Him? Why would anyone not want to love Him and reach out to Him?
Obey God. He leads to joy, peace, hope, love and life eternal in Heaven. Don't follow the devil. Satan only leads to destruction. He leads us to pain, misery, heartbreak, fear, worry, anxiety, hopelessness, and despair and eternity in Hell.
In order to defeat your enemy, you must know your enemy. Know his devices and tactics. Don't fall for his lies and deceit.
Follow the Lord. Turn from sin and the Lord will help you defeat your enemy.
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