“And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil” Matthew 6:13 ESV

By: Scott Schuler

My friend emerged from behind a giant mound of dirt. Eye bleeding, glasses crushed and hanging from one ear. I knew in one of those wish-you-could-do-over moments this was my fault.

But as an insecure twelve-year old, my friends easily influenced me. I took risks to impress them. And stuff happened. Like accidently pounding my friend in the face with a dirt bomb.

The incident started as great fun. New home construction sites were popping up throughout our neighborhood. Mounds of freshly unearthed dirt created great temptation for mischievous boys. On this day a dirt-bomb war erupted, filled with hurtling softball sized dirt clogs.

But the accuracy and velocity of my final throw found an unsuspecting target. As my friend came running toward me, I could see his eye already swelling, giant tears streaking down his face. Almost fifty years later the image still impacts me.

We later learned his vision was permanently impaired. Thanks to my poor choices.

Instead of doing the right thing, walking away from temptation, I caved.

I chose evil over good. As it often does, my indiscretion affected someone I loved. Can you think of a time you allowed others, even Satan, to poorly influence your choices?

Because Satan hates God, he hates every follower.

Although it’s a strong word, hate drives the Enemy to seek control of your heart. God is omnipresent, everywhere at the same time and omniscient, knowing everything. Satan is neither.

Satan exercises tremendous power and accomplishes his work through demons (Matthew 12:24; Revelation 12:7–9). Don’t live in fear of Satan’s authority. Keep your eyes on Jesus and remain aware that Satan is THE…

Enemy (Matthew 13:25, 28, 39) who thrives on destruction, wreaking havoc in your life.

Murderer (John 8:44) who attempts to kill your soul by attacking your emotions.

Tempter (1 Thessalonians 3:5) who appeals to your weakness, drawing you toward him through sin.

Wicked one, evil one (Matthew 13:19, 38; 1 John 2:13) who opposes Jesus. Satan fights against the Truth, causing malicious acts of wickedness.

False accuser of Jesus followers (Revelation 12:10) who convinces you to walk in self-condemnation and shame from past sins and mistakes.

Ruler of this world (John 12:31); god of this age (2 Corinthians 4:4); prince of the power of the air (Ephesians 2:2), explaining why the world is the way it is.

Knowing Satan’s characteristics, how is he influencing you?

You make decisions daily, some which have eternal impact. Be careful who you listen to, because you end up where you’re focused.

Satan wants you to believe failure is the end of the road.

But it’s not.

here is hope in Jesus, who makes all things new (Rev. 21:5). He takes our failures and turns them to good. Transforms ashes to beauty. Resurrects messes into masterpieces. Jesus offers new life, free from Satan’s bondage.

How? Turn to Jesus in repentance, away from your sin. Be confident He loves you just the way you are, failures and all.

What decisions have you made that you regret? Do you recognize Satan’s influence and his desire for you to carry guilt? Now, hand them over to Jesus. He forgives you.

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