The people whom Satan opposes most are those who are doing the most for the cause of Christ. This was true for the Apostle Paul, who said, “…a great door…is opened unto me, and there are many adversaries” (I Corinthians 16:9). It was also true of Stephen in Acts 6:7-13. The Word of God was increasing in the lives of the Jewish saints. Miracles were being performed, and “multitudes” were professing Christ as the Son of God. To thwart this progress, Satan stirred up wicked men who “suborned [bribed] men” to raise false accusations, “stirred up the people”, “and set up false witnesses” saying that Stephen had blasphemed the temple. When a ministry gains momentum in furthering the cause of Christ, you can count on Satan attacking those involved.

Paul warned the saints at Corinth about Satanic attacks, so the Devil would not gain an advantage. And he told them, “we are not ignorant of his devices.” Satan has many tactics. Paul would have gone to minister at Thessalonica, but Satan hindered him (I Thessalonians 2:18). He surely hinders us today when we minister to others. Luke 8:12 tells us that Satan seeks to snatch away the seed of the gospel when it is sown in the heart of an unsaved soul. II Corinthians 4:4 confirmed that Satan “…blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel…should shine unto them.” Acts 10:38 says many were “oppressed of the devil” with physical illnesses. This was also true of righteous Job, and it is likely true today. To fall into “the snare of the devil” (I Timothy 3:7) is to have a poor testimony before the lost; and to fall into “the condemnation of the devil” (I Timothy 3:6) is elevating a man to the position of an elder too soon, which often results in the sin of pride. Paul also warns against “seducing spirits and doctrines of devils” (I Timothy 1:4) which pull believers into such error that it is hard for them to admit their mistakes and return to sound doctrine.

Whether we realize it or not, Christians are in a constant spiritual warfare with Satan who brings the battle to us. It is unavoidable. In the power of God, we can “stand against the wiles of the devil,” but we can only do so by being constantly in the Word of God, praying continually, and being equipped with the full armor of God. Satan will attack you today. Get ready.