Faith & Reason Nexus

Satan is constantly seeking opportunities to gain influence in our lives. The Bible warns us against giving him any foothold by falling into certain traps. Here are some ways Satan may gain an advantage, and how we can guard against them:

Ignorance

• 2 Corinthians 2:11: “Lest Satan should take advantage of us; for we are not ignorant of his devices.”
• 2 Corinthians 11:3: “But I fear, lest somehow, as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, so your minds may be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.”
• Hosea 4:6: “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.”

Carelessness

• 1 Peter 5:8: “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.”
• Matthew 12:43-45: (Describes an unguarded life where the enemy returns stronger).

Indifference

• Matthew 13:25-29: (The parable of the weeds and the wheat, where neglect allows evil to grow unnoticed).
• Matthew 12:30: “He who is not with Me is against Me.”
• 1 Corinthians 15:58: “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord.”

Neglect

• Hebrews 2:1-3: “We must give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard, lest we drift away.”
• 2 Peter 1:5-12: (Warnings about neglecting to grow in faith and virtue).

Over Confidence

• Luke 22:31-34: (Jesus warns Peter about Satan’s desire to sift him).
• 1 Corinthians 10:12: “Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall.”

Flirtation

• James 4:7: “Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.”
• Ephesians 4:26-27: “Be angry, and do not sin: do not let the sun go down on your wrath, nor give place to the devil.”

Excuse Making

• Luke 14:16-20: (The parable of the great banquet, where people make excuses for not following God).

Will You Serve God or Satan?

• Guard your heart and mind: Protect yourself from ignorance, carelessness, and indifference by staying grounded in God’s Word and truth.
• Stand firm: Resist the devil by being vigilant and faithful in your relationship with God.
• Avoid excuses: Don’t allow pride or overconfidence to lead you into complacency.

Choose to serve God with all your heart and strength. Resist Satan and he will flee from you, allowing you to live victoriously in Christ.