Resisting the Devil
A study on how to effectively resist the devil's influence.
1. Knowing Your Enemy
1.1 Understanding the Reality of Spiritual Warfare
Verses: Ephesians 6:12; 1 Peter 5:8
- Recognize that spiritual warfare is a reality.
- Understand that the devil is a defeated foe through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
1.2 Recognizing the Devil's Tactics
Verses: 2 Corinthians 2:11; John 8:44
- Acknowledge the devil's tactics: deception, temptation, and accusation.
- Be aware of the areas in your life where you are most vulnerable to attack.
2. Arming Yourself with Spiritual Weapons
2.1 Submission to God
Verses: James 4:7; Romans 12:2
- Submit to the one true God, who manifests Himself as Father in creation, Son in redemption, and Holy Spirit in emanation.
- Resist the devil's influence by aligning your will with God's will.
2.2 Prayer and the Holy Spirit
Verses: 1 Thessalonians 5:17; Luke 11:13
- Pray without ceasing for strength and discernment.
- Ask for the Holy Spirit's guidance to overcome temptation.
2.3 The Word of God as a Weapon
Verses: Hebrews 4:12; Matthew 4:4
- Study the Word of God to know truth and recognize deception.
- Use scripture as a weapon against the devil's lies.
3. Spiritual Armor
3.1 Putting on the Armor of God
Verses: Ephesians 6:13-18
- Put on the whole armor of God: truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and the Word of God.
- Understand the purpose and function of each piece of armor.
4. Living a Life of Holiness
4.1 Repentance and Forgiveness
Verses: 1 John 1:9; Acts 3:19
- Confess your sins and repent from wrongdoing.
- Break free from any strongholds or patterns of sin in your life.
4.2 The Importance of Christian Community
Verses: Hebrews 10:24-25; Galatians 6:2
- Associate with other believers for encouragement and accountability.
- Support one another in resisting the devil's attacks.