Scripture: Colossians 2 v 8 - 17; Job 3 v 25.
The first instruction in this passage of scripture is beware of anyone trying to spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit - the traditions of man and laws of the world - which is contrary to the teachings of Jesus.
There is no philosophy that man has devised through great thinking and genius that would bring you to the foot of the Cross to be cleansed of sin by the Blood of Jesus. Satan wants us to be diverted by philosophies away from the truth. The truth defeats Satan and he is afraid of it.
In Him dwells the full Godhead and we are complete in Him. Jesus has destroyed demonic principalities and powers and made a show of them openly. He has totally humiliated Satan and made him a laughing stock. He went down in Satan's domain and whipped him completely, leaving the evil one utterly defeated.
I asked the Lord for a fresh example and I immediately heard the name Lance Armstrong the cyclist who won the grueling Tour de France 7 times. This year it was proven that his performances were enhanced by illegal drugs. He was publicly denounced as a cheat and has been stripped of all titles and accomplishments since 1998. All sponsors have withdrawn their sponsorships and he is now a pariah. He is facing a lifetime ban from the sport.
In the same way Jesus has denounced Satan as a loser and a cheat. He has been stripped of his weapons and armour. In 1 Corinthians 2 v 8 it says - if Satan had known how total was his defeat through the death and resurrection of Jesus - he would NEVER have crucified Him.
His only weapon is bluff. If he can con you into believing his lies he can break you and make you feel defeated. If you refuse to listen to him there is nothing he can do to you.
I recall the testimony of Smith Wigglesworth who was sleeping soundly when he felt his bed being violently shaken. He woke up to see Satan in his robes and crown standing imperiously next to his bed. Smith said, "O, it's only you!" And he turned over and went back to sleep. Now that is how to deal with him - just ignore him. He can do nothing if he is ignored.
Prayer: Heavenly Father Jesus defeated Satan totally through His death and resurrection, but he brainwashed us to believe his lies over Your truth. Help us to correct these wrongs as soon as possible and return to the pure unadulterated Word of God. In Jesus' name. Amen.
