LeadTip #12 Discern the works of the devil

Jesus turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns.””

Matthew 16:23

Satan has two primary goals, to deceive and to divide. Not only did Jesus immediately discern the works of the devil, but he did not hesitate to call it out and deal with it.

A believer must develop the ability to discern demonic activity and not allow it to influence their lives. Anything that contradicts the character of Christ and the truths and principles of the Bible must be questioned. Nefarious activity and intent may be at work.

The devil wants to divide people from Jesus, and cause disunity in families, the church, nations and destroy a person’s God given identity and purpose in Christ. He does not care if you believe in God, he just does not want you living for God. He wants you focused on the carnal desires of this world, and not on the concerns of God and eternal life through Christ.

Solution: The Bible tells us the Holy Spirit gives believers complete authority and power over demons. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Be alert to his temptations, lies, fear and the disunity he seeks to create.

The devil is a master of disguise and knows what applies - what may work in a given situation. He knows your weaknesses and what or who to use to deceive and divide. Do not give him or her a seat at your table and allow a conversation to ensue. Jesus discerned it was not Peter talking. Discern what is behind the veil of the challenges you may face.

Of course not every difficulty in life is linked to diabolical activity. But when you hear or see anything or anyone contradicting Biblical truth, causing division, and coming against the freedom you have in Christ, know a demon may be lurking.. Resist!

2 Corinthians 2:11….in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes.