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Articles
What Do You Expect from Satan?
The Bible warns us not to be “ignorant of (Satan’s) devices” (II Corinthians 2:11). People often blame God for our troubles, but how often do we consider Satan’s role? It’s not pleasant to think about, but Satan is active in this world (I Peter 5:8). Understanding what to expect from him can help us stand firm in our faith.
Why Is This Happening to Me?
When life feels unfair, it’s easy to question God’s goodness. Yet, the Bible teaches that all evil in this world traces back to Satan’s influence. In the Garden of Eden, everything was perfect until Satan introduced sin (Genesis 3). His influence corrupted the world, bringing pain and suffering. Sometimes, our struggles come from our own choices, when we let Satan’s temptations take root in our hearts (James 1:14). While the devil does not make anyone do anything, our own desires open the door to allow Satan’s temptations to influence us. In Luke 22:31, Jesus told Simon Peter, “Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat.” Other times, like John the Baptist in prison (Matthew 11), we suffer because of Satan’s influence in others’ lives. Herod’s sin put John behind bars.
Satan Is a Liar
Expect Satan to lie. Jesus called him the “father of lies” with “no truth in him” (John 8:44). In Matthew 4, Satan even tried lying to Jesus. First, he lies about God’s will, tempting Jesus to turn stones into bread (Matthew 4:1-4). Satan whispers, “God just wants you to be happy,” urging you to take shortcuts that defy God’s plan. Second, he lies about God’s word, twisting Scripture to mislead (Matthew 4:5-7). He’ll quote Bible verses out of context to confuse you, which is why we must study God’s word diligently. Third, he lies about God’s worth, offering temporary pleasures and claiming God can’t satisfy you (Matthew 4:8-11). Satan wants you to prioritize anything - your job, hobbies, or family - over God. But Jesus shows us the truth: only God is worthy of our worship.
Satan Is a Loser
Here’s the good news: Satan is a loser, and he knows it. In Matthew 4:11, he fled from Jesus after failing to tempt Him. Satan’s defeat is certain. God promises to “crush Satan under your feet” (Romans 16:20), and Revelation 20:10 declares his eternal punishment. Satan may seem powerful now, but he’s going down hard. You can expect him to lose in your life, too, if you follow Jesus’ example. “Submit to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7).
By trusting God and loving His truth, you can overcome Satan’s lies and stand firm in faith. What do you expect from Satan? Expect him to sow trouble and lie to you. But more importantly, expect him to lose. This world is full of pain because of Satan’s influence, but God offers victory through Jesus Christ. Resist the devil, cling to God’s truth, and trust that Satan’s defeat is sure.
