Ten Rules for Fighting Against Satan's Devices

In this final episode of this mini-series, we discuss ten rules for fighting against Satan's devices.

1. Walk by the Rule of the Word of God. Make the Bible your guide and authority. Obeying God’s Word keeps you in the safest path, while abandoning it opens the door to Satan’s devices.
2. Beware of Grieving the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is the one who helps you discern Satan’s snares and gives strength to escape them. Vexing the Spirit removes your best defense.
3. Labor for More Heavenly Wisdom. Knowledge is not enough; you need wisdom to apply that knowledge. Wise Christians see and avoid traps that trap the unthinking.
4. Resist Satan's First Motions. Do not dally with temptation. It is safe to resist immediately but dangerous to debate with sin. Eve debated and fell; Job resisted and stood.
5. Labor to Be Filled with the Spirit. Satan is a powerful spirit, so you need the greater power of the Holy Spirit to be filled in your heart, not just in your head.
6. Keep Humble. A humble heart is difficult to tempt. As low shrubs are protected from strong gusts that tear down tall trees, humility protects you from prideful pitfalls.
7. Keep a Constant Watch. A sleepy soul is an ensnared soul. Diligently watch your heart and actions, both from within and from without, to ensure you are not caught off guard.
8. Continue Your Communion with God. A soul close to God is not easily conquered. Commune with God to gain the strength to fight, even when heavily tempted.
9. Do Not Engage Satan in Your Own Strength. Lean entirely upon Christ and his power, rather than your own past experiences, graces, or duties.
10. Be Much in Prayer. Prayer is a shelter for your soul, a sacrifice to God, and a scourge to the devil. It is the method of escape when other ways seem blocked.

Need more help fighting sin and temptation? Get our resource Surviving the Trenches.