Scripture Reading 2 Cor. 2:11

Introduction Throughout the week we have looked at Satan and some of his devices. This has not been an exhaustive list. There may be other things that you can think of that could be included. Hopefully though, the things we have studied will help you in your efforts to battle against Satan.

Satan’s device-Compromise To make compromises in some things would not be wrong. I may compromise with my wife on something in order to keep or bring about peace in our relationship. Satan wants us to make compromises in our faith, morals & integrity.

Compromise The word compromise carries with it the idea of giving in, negotiating. Satan wants us to negotiate with him, to find middle ground with him. He wants us to give in. Satan is willing to share our affection for a time, he knows that if he can get us to compromise, he’ll soon have us.

Compromise begins with “but” “I know I shouldn’t go to that R-rated movie, but…everybody says it is so good”. “I know I shouldn’t miss services today, but…the fishing, the game, the shopping, the sleeping in, is just right today”.

Compromise begins with “but” “I know that I shouldn’t lie, but…just once won’t hurt”. “I know I shouldn’t drink that alcohol, but…I don’t want my friends to think I’m not cool”. Once Satan gets us to start making concessions then he knows that he is making inroads with us.

Compromise begins small It starts off in a small way and then grows. Someone forsakes the assembly once and then more & more. Tells one lie and then leads to another, then another, on and on. Drink one beer, then 2, then 6, then out of control.

Give no ground to Satan Matthew 6:24 Galatians 2:4-5 If we give ground to Satan, he will use it to his advantage, to get an advantage of us.

Overcoming Satan Throughout the week we have tried to show that we can overcome Satan & his devices. Remember everyday is a new day in our fight. Everyday will present new challenges. Some days will be easier than others.

Remember Pray for strength & wisdom (Jms. 1:5-6). Resist the devil & he will flee from you (Jms. 4:7). God prepares a way of escape (1 Cor. 10:13). God offers help & forgiveness when we sin (1 Jn. 1:9).

Conclusion Satan is not going to stop pursuing us (1 Pe. 5:8). We must be diligent in our efforts to withstand the fiery trials that will come our way. Let us humbly submit ourselves to God, for He cares for us (1 Pe. 5:6-7).