I was dead once, lived in sin, doing what the devil whispered in my ear. Now I know why. It is a true principle for everyone. "Once you were dead… You used to live in sin, just like the rest of the world, obeying the devil—the commander of the powers in the unseen world. He is the spirit at work in the hearts of those who refuse to obey God." (Ephesians 2:1,2)
What a glorious miracle it is when we give our lives to Christ and are transformed and translated. Transformed from being a child of the devil to being a child of God, translated from the kingdom of darkness to the kingdom of light. Those who have not given their lives to Christ remain children of Satan, bearing his prideful, rebellious nature.
"You are of your father the devil, and it is your will to practice the desires [which are characteristic] of your father. He was a murderer from the beginning and does not stand in the truth because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks what is natural to him, for he is a liar and the father of lies and half-truths." (John 8:44, AMP)
So when people or politicians tell half-truths or lie, they are under the influence of Satan, because they are acting like him and fulfilling his wishes. So beware… don't accept what they say as truth. We can recognize the spirit behind them, just as Jesus said to Peter, "Get behind me, Satan." We love people but stand against the enemy of truth and the enemy of our souls with prayer and praise.
(Hebrews 2:14, AMP) "... so that through [experiencing] death He might make powerless (ineffective, impotent) him who had the power of death—that is, the devil—"
Here are some things to take away from these verses:
Recognize the influence of evil or deception in the world. Consider discerning truth and falsehood in your personal life, relationships, and the broader society. Are you able to distinguish between actions or messages that align with truth and those that may be influenced by deception?
Evaluate how you conduct yourself in your interactions with others. Are you living righteously, truthfully (not telling lies), and showing love to others?
Express gratitude to Jesus for any positive changes or transformations you've experienced in your life, whether spiritual, emotional, or relational. Also, think about extending empathy and prayers to others who may be struggling or feeling trapped by the deceiver, Satan.
The gospel is good news because Jesus saves us from the dark side, the influence of the Evil One, and his murderous attempts. We are brought into the light side, under the influence of the good and precious Holy Spirit, adopted into the family of God.
I encourage you to see what is going on in the spiritual realm and to stand in faith and truth, being grateful that your father is no longer the devil, and he no longer has power over you. Let us pray for those who are still held hostage by the evil one.