Sunday Sprint: Satan-- Beyond the Halloween Costume

"The coming of the lawless one will be in accordance with the work of Satan displayed in all kinds of counterfeit miracles, signs and wonders, and in every sort of evil that deceives those who are perishing. They perish because they refused to love the truth and so be saved." 

2 Thessalonians 2:9-10

I had a dream last night... it was of a suave, handsome gentleman. He dressed smart. He was sophisticated and charming. He had a smile that could melt anyone's heart and instantly endear them to himself. 

However, as the dream went on, this man grew more and more agitated and upset. His charming smile disappeared and he began to rant about the disrespect he had to endure from others. He vowed to get his revenge on the world. He would demand the respect of everyone. 

This man's eyes became more wild with every passing moment as a rage ignited within them. He performed unimaginable acts of cruelty in order to have his revenge on the world he felt had insulted him. 

This man's name? Satan.

With Halloween just around the corner, we're sure to see a myriad of devilish costumes roaming the streets... red horned headbands, plastic pitchforks, and pointed red tails. The world has reduced Satan to a comical cartoon. 

While Christians have nothing to fear in Satan---our Savior has assured us of that---he is still no laughing matter. Satan has put on a charming face for thousands of years... he has put up with our disrespect and scoffing. However, this fallen angel who was so arrogant and power-hungry as to face off with the God of the Universe--his own Creator---is not one to be scoffed at. He will destroy anyone not under God's protection when the time is right.

Satan isn't some fun party animal. He isn't a punchline to some funny joke. He is very real. He has been allotted real power. While his power is minuscule in comparison God's, he still has the permission and ability to torment and destroy all those who refuse to acknowledge Jesus as their Savior when the time comes.  

We take Satan's power away by putting our trust in God and our faith in Jesus. To those who are under God's protection, Satan can do little more than whisper arguments in their ear. And those who have set down roots in God's Word will see right through Satan's lies and schemes. However, those who have not yet accepted the Salvation found in Christ, Satan has the power to destroy--mind, body, and soul. 

This Stumbler is going to watch her step carefully so that she is not tripped up by this cunning tempter. The more of us who turn our back on the world and Satan's schemes, the less power he has. How blessed we are to have found safety in the arms of our God! Without Him, we would be hopeless...we would be defenseless against the anger and wrath of a prideful Satan, seeking his revenge.

Keep your eyes and ears open. 

Keep your faith unwavering. 

Keep a healthy respect for your enemy. 

Have no fear.