Stand Your Ground

For the child of God, the devil, and all his principalities and powers, have been defeated, through the finished work of the cross. The book of Ephesians tells us we have been given the place of authority, far above their rule since we are seated in heavenly places in Christ (Ephesians 1:21-22; 2:6). In the book of Philippians, it says we have also been given the Name of Jesus to use against them, the name that is higher than any other, and to which every knee must and will bow, in heaven, on earth, and bellow the earth (Philippians 2:10). Why then does the devil and his evil cohorts cause so much trouble and harassment on this earth, and why do they wage war against believers? While the Bible states they are defeated foes, it also says they have not yet been imprisoned; however, they are subject to obey the believer who understands his position of righteousness and authority in Christ Jesus. The devil’s greatest weapon against the believer is keeping him in a place of ignorance concerning this. He will do whatever he can to intimidate and deceive Christians into thinking he is powerful against them, taking advantage over their minds through thoughts of anxiety and fear. The truth is, the devil has no power or authority over the born-again child of God. When a believer has no understanding of this truth, the devil takes full advantage over him. Through Christ, we have been given authority over 3 realms: our flesh. (Romans 6:12; Galatians 5:16), the spirit of this world (John 16:33), and the devil himself (Matthew 28:18; Luke 10:19). Once we grasp the truth that Jesus has made us master over and not subject to the devil and all his demon spirits, we are to exercise our authority over them, enforcing their defeat. 1 John 3:8 tells us that Jesus was manifest to destroy the works of the devil, and He did a perfect job of it. So, the next time the devil harasses your mind with fearful thoughts, or tries to put sickness on your body, or cause chaos in any area of your life – remember who you are in Christ and what has been done for you, so you can stand your ground, resist the devil, and watch him flee from you.