126. HOW TO OVERCOME THE POWER OF SIN IN MY LIFE? – How do I protect Jesus’ life within me against Satan’s attacks? (g)

In Meditation 123 we learned that all followers of Jesus need to act according to the apostle Paul’s instructions if they want to learn how to defy Satan’s powerful attacks on Jesus’ life within them. We saw that Paul began his orders with the command: “Put on all of God's armor...” ( Ephesians 6:11*)

In Meditation 124 Paul starts with the specific order: “Stand therefore (or: stand your ground) having girded your waist with truth.” (Ephesians 6:14***) I said that this means nothing else than to remain in Jesus’ presence and to be filled with (or: controlled by) His Spirit.

In Meditation 125 we saw that the apostle’s second charge is: “Stand therefore (or: stand your ground) ... having put on the breastplate of righteousness.” ( Ephesians 6:14***) We learned that it means to live and act like Jesus by the power of God’s Spirit.

In this Meditation we want to think about Paul’s third command:

“Stand therefore, ... having shod your feet with the preparation (or: preparedness) of the Gospel of peace...” ( Ephesians 6:14-15***)

From a superficial reading of this verse, the command seems to indicate that we prepare ourselves to share the Gospel of peace with everyone we meet. On closer examination of the text in its context many Bible teachers come to another viewpoint.

First of all, the entire divine armour is for defence, not for action. (In a later Meditation we will ask ourselves if “the sword of the Spirit” in verse 17 is an exception.)  The command is ‘to stand our ground” against Satan’s assaults, not to attack.

Secondly, the divine armour is a characterization of Jesus’ life (see Meditation 124). Therefore, the call cannot be to get ourselves ready for outreach.

So, how do the sandals of the Roman soldiers speak of Jesus’ life?

The Roman military boots speak of Jesus’ standing in the Gospel of peace

The heavy-soled, hobnailed military boots (Latin: caligae) of the Roman soldiers gave a secure foothold to stand firm, even on sloping or slippery ground. Such a firm stand helped them to remain steadfast even during the fiercest attack.

How could the firm stance of the Roman soldier, caused by his hobnailed boots, speak of Christ’s unshakable stance in the Gospel of peace? When God’s Word refers to the “Gospel of peace”, it points to the Good News of having peace with God or of possessing the peace of God (or: of Christ)!

When Jesus testifies about the peace He has with His heavenly Father, He points to His intimate relationship with Him. Here are some examples:

-- “I am in the Father and the Father is in Me.”  (John 14:10-11*)

-- “The Father loves the Son.” (John 5:20*)

-- “As the Father knows Me, even so I know the Father.” (John 10:15***)

-- “The One who sent Me is with Me; He has not left Me alone, for I always do what pleases Him.” (John 8:29**)

It is only at the cross, when Jesus was punished for our rebellion to God, that He lost His Father’s presence and peace. He cried out: “Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani? which means, My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” (Mark 15:34*)

The Roman military boots and our standing in the Gospel of peace

Like Jesus, we need to stand firm when Satan assaults us. Therefore, we cannot be without Christ’s unshakable footing in the Gospel of peace. We know that Satan aims at destroying our intimate relationship with God. He wants to topple us so that we lose out footing in the Gospel of peace.

Losing our peace with God

Satan wants to cast doubts on our salvation and to undermine the peace we have with God. The Bible speaks a lot about the peace that Jesus’ followers have with God through Christ’s sacrifice. Here are some examples:

-- “He (Jesus Messiah) was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace (with God) was upon Him...” (Isaiah 53:5**)

-- “You know the message God sent to the people of Israel, telling the good news (i.e. the Gospel) of peace through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all.” (Acts 10:36**)

-- “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ...” (Romans 5:1**)

Indeed, Satan would love to sow doubt in our hearts concerning our salvation. We need to remain grounded in the Gospel (i.e. the Good News) that assures us of peace with God once we have accepted Jesus as our Saviour. If Satan succeeds to sow doubt in our hearts with regard to our salvation, we lose the battle completely. Questioning our salvation disrupts our intimate relationship with our Triune God.  

Losing the peace of God

We said that the second thing Satan wants to undermine is the peace of God we have through Jesus Christ. There are many Bible verses that speak of the assurance of God’s peace that Jesus gives to His followers. For example:

-- “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27**)

-- “I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33**)

-- “If the Holy Spirit controls your mind, there is life and peace.” (Romans 8:6*)

-- “I (Paul) pray that God, who gives you hope, will keep you happy and full of peace as you believe in Him. May you overflow with hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13*)

-- “When the Holy Spirit controls our lives, He will produce this kind of fruit in us: love, joy, peace...” (Galatians 5:22*)

-- “If you do this (i.e., not worry but telling God what you need), you will experience God's peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:7*)

-- “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” (Colossians 3:15**)

-- “May the Lord of peace Himself always give you His peace no matter what happens. The Lord be with you all. (2 Thessalonians 3:16*)

As God’s children, we should remain firmly grounded in the Gospel of peace through the power of God’s Spirit. If we believe what God’s Word says about our salvation (having peace with God) and our intimate fellowship with God (possessing the peace of God), Satan has no chance to topple us from our sure foundation! Indeed, that is the way to obey Paul’s command: “Stand therefore, ... having shod your feet with the preparation (or: preparedness) of the Gospel of peace...”
( Ephesians 6:14-15***)

Translation: * New Living Translation; ** New International Version; *** New King James Version.

About “ Satan and our rebellious lives”, see Meditations 19-21.

About “What must I do to be saved?”, see Meditations 22-26.

About “The Holy Spirit and His ministry”, see Meditations 27-34.

About “God’s major project: transforming me and my church into the likeness of Christ”, see Meditations 45-48.

About “Do not bring sorrow to God’s Spirit”, see Meditations 49-55.

About “Personal Christlike love for the Father and His Son”, see Meditations 56-64.

About “How to overcome the power of sin in my life and in my church", see Meditations 101-121.

125. HOW TO OVERCOME THE POWER OF SIN IN MY LIFE? – How do I protect Jesus’ life within me against Satan’s attacks? (f)

In the last Meditation we read Paul’s command to “put on the full armour of God”. We realized that it means nothing less than clothing ourselves with Jesus Christ (see Romans 13:14** “Clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature.”).

Speaking in detail about God’s full armour, the apostle first urges us to “gird our waist with truth” which means that we need to remain in Jesus’ presence. This implies that we are filled with (or controlled by) His Spirit. We noticed that if we want to protect Jesus’ life within us against Satan’s attacks, we need to allow God’s Spirit to shield us. Without His control over us, we are utterly lost to our ‘old self’ and his unrighteous and immoral behaviour.

“... having put on the breastplate of righteousness” ( Ephesians 6:14***)

The second item we need is the “breastplate of righteousness”. As this entire defensive armour is a picture of our Lord Jesus Christ, we need to ask ourselves first of all what God’s Word says about Jesus’ breastplate of righteousness.

The prophet Isaiah (8^th century BC) foresaw the coming of the divine Messiah to bring salvation to God’s people. In Isaiah 59:17** we read that He will clothe Himself in full armour to fight injustice. Isaiah writes that “He put on righteousness as His breastplate...”

The apostle Paul speaks elsewhere of the need for Christians to wear a defensive “breastplate”. In his first letter to the Christians in Thessaloniki (Greece) he writes: “Let us be self-controlled, putting on faith and love as a breastplate...” (1 Thessalonians 5:8**)

It is interesting to notice that this defensive armour against Satan’s assaults exists in outgoing, active behaviour: righteousness, faith and love! It seems that Paul says that we are not called to lock ourselves in an impenetrable castle against our fiercest enemy. On the contrary, we protect ourselves against Satan’s onslaught by acting positively in righteousness, faith and love. I think of Paul’s advice to the Christians in Rome: “Don't let evil get the best of you, but conquer evil by doing good” (Romans 12:21*). And what about Jesus’ words: “But if you are willing to listen, I say, love your enemies. Do good to those who hate you. Pray for the happiness of those who curse you. Pray for those who hurt you. If someone slaps you on one cheek, turn the other cheek. If someone demands your coat, offer your shirt also. Give what you have to anyone who asks you for it; and when things are taken away from you, don't try to get them back.” (Luke 6:27-30*)

In this Meditation we are especially interested in the questions: (a.) What does God’s Word mean when it speaks about being ‘righteous’? (b.) What do Isaiah and Paul mean when they write about “the breastplate of righteousness”? Here follow some thoughts to ponder:

Our Triune God is righteous

When the prophet Isaiah speaks about the divine Messiah’s breastplate of righteousness, he actually speaks about our Triune God who Himself is the norm of righteous living and action since He created human life.

Moses (13^th century BC?) declares that “His works are perfect, and all His ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is He” (Deuteronomy 32:4**).

King David (11^th century BC) rejoices in Psalm 145:17* saying that “the LORD is righteous in everything He does...”

God’s Word and Will are righteous

Because God is righteous, His Word and Will are righteous. Psalm 119 speaks of God’s righteous ways: “May my tongue sing of Your Word, for all Your commands are righteous” (Psalm 119:172**). The apostle Paul tells the Christians of Rome that“the Law (of God) is holy, and the commandment is holy, righteous and good” (Romans 7:12**).

Whoever obeys God’s will is righteous

Moses told God’s people: “If we are careful to obey all this Law before the LORD our God, as He has commanded us, that will be our righteousness" (Deuteronomy 6:25**). And the apostle Paul writes: “It is not those who hear the Law (of God) who are righteous in God's sight, but it is those who obey the Law who will be declared righteous” (Romans 2:13**)

So, a person who lives and acts righteously reflects God’s righteous living and action. Job testifies about his righteous life when he says: “I helped the poor in their need and the orphans who had no one to help them.  I helped those who had lost hope, and they blessed me. And I caused the widows' hearts to sing for joy. All I did was just and honest. Righteousness covered me like a robe, and I wore justice like a turban.  I served as eyes for the blind and feet for the lame.  I was a father to the poor and made sure that even strangers received a fair trial.  I broke the jaws of godless oppressors and made them release their victims.” (Job 29:12-17*)

It is the prophet Isaiah who attested that actually no one can obey God’s righteous commands perfectly: “We are all infected and impure with sin. When we proudly display our righteous deeds, we find they are but filthy rags. Like autumn leaves, we wither and fall. And our sins, like the wind, sweep us away” (Isaiah 64:6*).

God’s Messiah, Jesus Christ, displays God’s righteousness perfectly

Through His prophet Isaiah, God promises the coming of the righteous Messiah: “The Spirit of the LORD will rest on Him -- the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of power, the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD -- and He will delight in the fear of the LORD. He will not judge by what He sees with his eyes, or decide by what He hears with His ears; but with righteousness He will judge the needy, with justice He will give decisions for the poor of the earth. He will strike the earth with the rod of His mouth; with the breath of His lips He will slay the wicked. Righteousness will be His belt and faithfulness the sash round His waist.” (Isaiah 11:2-5**)

Furthermore we read of Him: “The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is upon Me, because the LORD has appointed Me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent Me to comfort the brokenhearted and to announce that captives will be released and prisoners will be freed. He has sent Me to tell those who mourn that the time of the LORD's favor has come, and with it, the day of God's anger against their enemies. To all who mourn in Israel, He will give beauty for ashes, joy instead of mourning, praise instead of despair. For the LORD has planted them like strong and graceful oaks for His own glory.” (Isaiah 61:1-3*)

About seven hundred years later, Jesus showed that He is this promised Messaiah: “The scroll containing the messages of Isaiah the prophet was handed to Him (Jesus), and He unrolled the scroll to the place where it says: ‘The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, for He has appointed Me to preach Good News to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim that captives will be released, that the blind will see, that the downtrodden will be freed from their oppressors, and that the time of the Lord's favor has come.’ He rolled up the scroll, handed it back to the attendant, and sat down. Everyone in the synagogue stared at Him intently. Then He said, ‘This Scripture has come true today before your very eyes!’” (Luke 4:17-21*)

Indeed, the four Gospels tell us that Jesus lived and acted righteously according to God’s righteous will. Just like Book of the Hebrews tells us: “The Son reflects God's own glory, and everything about Him represents God exactly.” (Hebrews 1:3*) and Paul writes to the Colossian Christians: “Christ is the visible image of the invisible God.” (Colossians 1:15*)

We now understand that when Isaiah speaks about the Messiah’s “breastplate of righteousness”, he is saying that the coming Messiah, Jesus Christ, will display God’s nature and will in the way He will live and rescue God’s people. His saving intervention will be a display of God’s love, compassion and righteousness.

To put on the breastplate of righteousness means to live and act like Jesus

What then does Paul mean when he urges us to put on ‘the breastplate of righteousness’? I think that it is clear by now that Paul does not expect us to resist Satan in a ‘self-made’ righteousness. We just read in Isaiah 64:6 that nobody is able to live and act sinlessly and in accordance with God’s will. So, the ‘breastplate of righteousness’ which Paul mentions in Romans 6:14 must come from elsewhere!

We said at the beginning of this Meditation that Paul urges us to clothe ourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 13:14). He lives in all His followers by His Spirit, as Paul wrote to the Christians in Rome: “You ... are controlled not by the sinful nature but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Christ.” (Romans 8:9**)

Indeed, it is Christ’s Spirit who gives us the power to obey God’s Word and Will. He wants to empower us to oppose Satan’s attacks with Christlike love, compassion and righteousness. Therefore, we need Him to clothe us with the breastplate of Christ’s righteousness. That is the way to overcome any attack of our fiercest enemy.  

Translation: * New Living Translation; ** New International Version; *** New King James Version.

About “ Satan and our rebellious lives”, see Meditations 19-21.

About “The Holy Spirit and His ministry”, see Meditations 27-34.

About “God’s major project: transforming me and my church into the likeness of Christ”, see Meditations 45-48.

About “Do not bring sorrow to God’s Spirit”, see Meditations 49-55.

About “Personal Christlike love for the Father and His Son”, see Meditations 56-64.

About “How to overcome the power of sin in my life and in my church?” see Meditations 101-121.

124. HOW TO OVERCOME THE POWER OF SIN IN MY LIFE? – How do I protect Jesus’ life within me against Satan’s attacks? (e)

In our last meditation we saw that the apostle Paul wants God’s children to be prepared for Satan’s assaults. That’s why he gives us the necessary instructions on how to protect ourselves against the devil’s scheming. The apostle urges us to:

“... put on the full armour of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.” (Ephesians 6:13**)

Interestingly, Paul appeals to the Christians in Rome to “put on the Lord Jesus Christ...” (Romans 13:14***)

He encourages the believers in Ephesus (Turkey) to “put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.” (Ephesians 4:24**)

To God’s children in Colossae (Turkey) he writes about: “... having put on the new self, which is being renewed ..... in the image of its Creator.” (Colossians 3:10**)

 

I think that the expression ‘putting on the full armour of God’ has the same meaning as ‘putting on the Lord Jesus Christ’ and ‘putting on the new self’. It seems that the reason for the different phrasing is related to the distinct pastoral situations. In Romans 13:14, Ephesians 4:24 and Colossians 3:10, the apostle gives voice to his desire that the Christians in those cities will grow strong in Christlike maturity, whereas in Ephesians 6:13 he instructs the followers of Christ in Ephesus and us on how to protect that transformation process against Satan’s destructive attacks.

Today we want to start looking into the practicalities of the question: How can I use God’s armour to protect Jesus’ life within me against Satan’s relentless onslaught?

“Stand your ground...” (Ephesians 6:14*)

Paul begins his instruction with the command: “Stand firm”(*) or “Stand your ground” (**) (Ephesians 6:14). He used this expression already in the verses 11 and 13. Empowered by God’s Spirit, we are able to offer resistance to Satan’s attacks. For the apostle, victory over the enemy is a real option!

“...having girded your waist with truth...” (Ephesians 6:14***)

It seems that Paul bases this verse on the saying of the prophet Isaiah (8^th century BC) with regard to the coming Messiah: “Righteousness will be His belt and faithfulness (or: truth) the sash round His waist.” (Isaiah 11:5**). The New Testament shows that Jesus is the fulfilment of the Old Testament prophecies and the personification of God’s truth. Here are some examples:  

-- “So the Word became human and lived here on earth among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness (or: truth**). And we have seen His glory, the glory of the only Son of the Father.” (John 1:14*)

-- “Jesus told him (Philip), "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through Me.” (John 14:6*)

-- “Since you have heard all about Him and have learned the truth that is in Jesus” (Ephesians 4:21*)

-- “For in Christ the fullness of God lives in a human body.” (Colossians 2:9*)

Moreover, in the New Testament, God’s Spirit is often called the Spirit of truth:

-- “I (Jesus) will ask the Father, and He will give you another Counsellor to be with you for ever -- the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept Him, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him. But you know Him, for He lives with you and will be in you.” (John 14:16-17**)

-- "But I will send you the Counselor-- the Spirit of truth. He will come to you from the Father and will tell you all about Me.” (John 15:26*)

-- “When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth. He will not be presenting His own ideas; He will be telling you what He has heard. He will tell you about the future.” (John 16:13*)

-- “We belong to God; that is why those who know God listen to us. If they do not belong to God, they do not listen to us. That is how we know if someone has the Spirit of truth or the spirit of deception.” (1 John 4:6*)

I think that “having girded your waist with truth” means nothing else than remaining in Jesus’ presence or being filled with (or: controlled by) Jesus’ Spirit:

“Remain in Me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful apart from Me. Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in Me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from Me you can do nothing.” ( John 15:4-5*)

“When the Holy Spirit controls our lives, He will produce this kind of fruit in us: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22-23*)

“Let the Holy Spirit fill and control you.” (Ephesians 5:18*)

So, “putting on the full armour of God”, presupposes that my life is controlled by the presence and power of God’s Spirit! If that would not be the case, all Paul’s further commands would prompt self-righteous actions.  

I think that the further description of the armour of God is a characterization of Jesus’ life. Therefore, one also could say: “putting on the full armour of God” means nothing less than clothing yourself with Jesus Christ.

Notably, it follows that if I want to protect Jesus’ life within me against Satan’s attacks, I need to allow God’s Spirit to shield me. Without His control over me, I am utterly lost to my ‘old self’ and his unrighteous and immoral behaviour.

Translation: * New Living Translation; ** New International Version; *** New King James Version.

About “ Satan and our rebellious lives”, see Meditations 19-21.

About “The Holy Spirit and His ministry”, see Meditations 27-34.

About “God’s major project: transforming me and my church into the likeness of Christ”, see Meditations 45-48.

About “Do not bring sorrow to God’s Spirit”, see Meditations 49-55.

About “Personal Christlike love for the Father and His Son”, see Meditations 56-64.

About “How to overcome the power of sin in my life and in my church?” see Meditations 101-121.

123. HOW TO OVERCOME THE POWER OF SIN IN MY LIFE? – How do I protect Jesus’ life within me against Satan’s attacks? (d)

In our last meditation we saw that the apostle Paul instructs all God’s children: “Put on the full armour of God so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies and tricks of the Devil.” ( Ephesians 6:11*). In the next verse the apostle further explains why this full armour of God is imperative.

“We are not fighting against people made of flesh and blood...” (Ephesians 6:12*)

In Ephesians 6:12 Paul tells the Christians in Ephesus (Turkey) that God doesn’t want us to fight against fellow human beings even if they hate us. Jesus Himself teaches us: “Love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you!” (Matthew 5:44*)

The literal rendering of the originally Greek text says: “Our wrestling is not with flesh and blood...” Wrestling in Paul’s time was a one-on-one encounter with an adversary either in sport or in war. However, the personal wrestling of Jesus’ followers is not with humans, but with demonic powers. During our entire Christian life these powers keep launching attacks on our ‘old’ sinful nature aiming at hindering, blocking and if possible even at destroying Christ’s life within us.       

The apostle Paul continues describing these manifold demonic beings that we might face during those one-on-one encounters. Let’s have a look at how Paul portrays them:

“We are ... fighting ... against the evil rulers ⁽¹⁾ and authorities 2 ⁽²⁾ of the unseen world, against those mighty powers of darkness who rule this world ⁽³⁾, and against wicked spirits in the heavenly realms ⁽⁴⁾.” ( Ephesians 6:12*)

In this text Paul specifies what Satan’s infernal army is made of:

(1) The evil rulers (Greek: the ‘archontes’). It seems that the apostle points here to the supernatural commanders-in-chief of the demonic armies. Jesus speaks of Satan as the ‘supreme commander-in-chief’ who will be judged at Christ’s cross: “The time of judgment for the world has come, when the prince (Greek: archon) of this world will be cast out.” (John 12:31*)

(2) The authorities (Greek: the ‘exousias’). They might be the diabolic ‘authorities’ in rank below the commanders-in-chief. Some commentators think that Paul points here to a system of hierarchical relationships in Satan’s infernal army. We find the same sequence of these two words (i.e., rulers and authorities) in Paul’s letter to the Christians in Ephesus when he writes: “I pray that you will begin to understand the incredible greatness of His power for us who believe Him. This is the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead and seated Him in the place of honor at God's right hand in the heavenly realms. Now He is far above any ruler or authority or power or leader or anything else in this world or in the world to come.” (Ephesians 1:19-21*). Again, Paul uses this sequence in his letter to the believers in Colossae (Turkey): “... God disarmed the evil rulers and authorities. He shamed them publicly by His victory over them on the cross of Christ.” (Colossians 2:15*).

Finally, Paul utilizes the term ‘exousia’ also when he speaks about Satan: “You used to live just like the rest of the world, full of sin, obeying Satan, the mighty prince (Greek: ‘exousia’) of the power of the air. He is the spirit at work in the hearts of those who refuse to obey God.” (Ephesians 2:2*)

(3) The mighty powers of darkness who rule this world (Greek: the ‘kosmokratoras’). This is the only verse in the Bible where this Greek term is used. It is known in the world outside the Holy Scriptures and might point to evil powers who hold sway over our world (Greek: ‘kosmos’).

(4) The wicked spirits in the heavenly realms. These are the spirit-forces of evil, Satan’s host of demons, who attack and seduce men.  

As I said before, some Bible commentators think that Paul points here to a system of hierarchical relationships in Satan’s infernal army. Others believe that Paul does not speak of different groups but uses synonymous descriptions of the diabolic powers that control humankind. Whatever our opinion might be, it is clear that the apostle sees behind humanity and its civilizations the demonic forces of Satan and his hosts. Paul explains to the Christians in Corinth that “Satan, the god of this evil world, has blinded the minds of those who don't believe, so they are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News that is shining upon them. They don't understand the message we preach about the glory of Christ, who is the exact likeness of God.” (2 Corinthians 4:4*)

In the days before His death, Jesus also points to the fact that Satan tries to manipulate men into speaking and acting against God’s will. Matthew writes: “From then on Jesus began to tell His disciples plainly that He had to go to Jerusalem, and He told them what would happen to Him there. He would suffer at the hands of the leaders and the leading priests and the teachers of religious law. He would be killed, and He would be raised on the third day. But Peter took Him aside and corrected Him. ‘Heaven forbid, Lord,’ he said. ‘This will never happen to You!’ Jesus turned to Peter and said, "Get away from Me, Satan! You are a dangerous trap to Me. You are seeing things merely from a human point of view, and not from God's.’” (Matthew 16:21-23*)

Another classical illustration of Satan’s assault on man, we find in the Book of Job. Here God allows Satan to attack Job in various ways so that Job can prove his faithfulness to the Lord. It is another example of Satan’s intervention in the physical world. However, in reading this Book of Job it is important to note that Satan’s power solely depends on God’s allowance. We can find the same testimony in the last book of the Bible, the Book of Revelations.

The apostle John writes: “The great dragon was hurled down--that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray. He was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him.” (Revelation 12:9**). The New Living Translation renders: “This great dragon-- the ancient serpent called the Devil, or Satan, the one deceiving the whole world-- was thrown down to the earth with all his angels.” (Revelation 12:9*)

Then John continues lamenting: “... terror will come on the earth and the sea. For the Devil has come down to you in great anger, and he knows that he has little time." (Revelation 12:12*)

Yet, in spite of Satan’s scheming, the apostle Paul is convinced that he has no claim anymore on the children of God! The apostle rejoices over the fact that “God has rescued us from the one who rules in the kingdom of darkness, and He has brought us into the Kingdom of His dear Son.” (Colossians 1:13*)

Furthermore, Paul exclaims: “I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 8:38-39*)

The apostle Jude finalizes his letter by using these remarkable and comforting words: “All glory to God, who is able to keep you from stumbling, and who will bring you into His glorious presence innocent of sin and with great joy.” (Jude 1:24*)

Paul’s awareness of the demonic presence of Satan and his armed forces might lead some to suspect Satanic attacks in every day-to-day situation. Others might totally reject the idea of any diabolical activity behind human actions. I think that both opinions are incorrect in the light of God’s Word. The Old and New Testament testify frequently to the possible influence of the demonic in human life. Yet, nowhere do we read that man is simply a puppet on a string in a diabolical drama. In God’s eyes we remain responsible for our actions and allegiances.

The apostle Paul wants God’s children to be prepared for Satan’s possible assaults. That’s why he gives us the necessary instructions how to protect ourselves against the devil’s evil scheming. The apostle urges:

    

“Use every piece of God's armor to resist the enemy in the time of evil, so that after the battle you will still be standing firm.” ( Ephesians 6:13*)

In the next meditation we will see how I can use every piece of God’s armor to protect Jesus’ life within me in the battles with Satan’s infernal army. 

Translation: * New Living Translation; ** New International Version.

About the questions “Who is Satan?” and “Can we blame Satan for all our wrongdoings?” see meditations 19-21.

About “How to overcome the power of sin in my life and in my church?” see meditations 101-121.

122. HOW TO OVERCOME THE POWER OF SIN IN MY LIFE? – How do I protect Jesus’ life within me against Satan’s attacks? (c)

In our last meditation we saw what our relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ should look like if we want to overcome Satan’s assaults on Jesus’ life within us. Of course, Satan can never destroy Jesus' life in us, but he can slow down or even obstruct the growth of Christlike maturity in us. Why is this so?

It is clear that Satan’s destructive campaign is first of all aimed at our ‘old’ sinful nature. He tries to seduce us into yielding to our sinful desires and into disobeying God’s Word. The apostle James puts that quite plainly when he writes: “When tempted, no-one should say, "God is tempting me." For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He tempt anyone; but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death. Don't be deceived, my dear brothers.” (James 1:13-16**)

Therefore, if we want to learn defying Satan’s powerful attacks, we need to follow the apostle Paul’s instructions.        

“Put on all of God's armor...” ( Ephesians 6:11*)

He starts his instruction by spurring us to “put on all of God's armour”. The apostle uses here the Greek word ‘panoplia’ which is a figure of speech derived from the Roman army in Paul’s days. The ‘panoplia’ is literally the full preparation of a foot soldier for offense and defence. If we want to protect Jesus’ life in us against Satan’s attacks on our ‘old’ sinful nature, we need to clothe ourselves with the full armour of God. That is a protective covering which solely God’s Spirit can provide to overcome Satan’s assaults. Only by clothing ourselves with this ‘armour of the Spirit’ we are able to protect Jesus’ life in us against Satan’s abuses of our sinful nature!

Paul urges the Christians in Rome to put on God’s full armour: “The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armour of light.” (Romans 13:12**) The modern New Living Translation renders this originally Greek verse as: “The night is almost gone; the day of salvation will soon be here. So don't live in darkness. Get rid of your evil deeds. Shed them like dirty clothes. Clothe yourselves with the armor of right living, as those who live in the light.” (Romans 13:12*)

Speaking about the way he does his ministry work as an apostle of Christ, Paul testifies to the Christians in Corinth (Greece): “The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.” (2 Corinthians 10:4**)

“... so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies and tricks of the Devil.” ( Ephesians 6:11*)

Paul shows that God’s full armour is imperative for being able to offer resistance and hold our ground to Satan’s attacks. Besides, we are in need to keep constantly alert against unexpected demonic assaults. The apostle warns the Christians in Corinth: “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong.” (1 Corinthians 16:13**). To the followers of Christ in Colosse (Turkey) he writes: “Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart.” (Colossians 4:2*).

Finally, the apostle Peter cautions us against Satan’s likely assaults: “Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” (1 Peter 5:8**).

These attacks of Satan are not only negative occurrences. They also aim at a positive result! The apostle James encourages us: “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials, of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” (James 1:2-4**). James wants us to know that God habitually tests our obedience to Him. In doing so He aims at teaching us how to grow in persistence which results in the development of mature Christlikeness!.   

The idea that God wants to test our faith is not limited to James’ letter. Here are some examples from elsewhere in God’s Word:

-- God says by mouth of His prophet Jeremiah (7^th century BC): “I, the LORD, search all hearts and examine secret motives. I give all people their due rewards, according to what their actions deserve.” ( Jeremiah 17:10*)

In the Book of Proverbs we read: “Fire tests the purity of silver and gold, but the LORD tests the heart.” (Proverbs 17:3*)

-- King David even humbly asks God to check out his faith: “Put me on trial, LORD, and cross-examine me. Test my motives and affections.” (Psalm 26:2*) and again in Psalm 139:23-24*: “Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends You, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.”

Before we continue meditating on the importance of God’s full armour for us, we need to look at Paul’s description of the manifold demonic forces he describes in Ephesians 6:12. That’s what we will do next time.

Translations: * New Living Translation; ** New International Version

About the question “Who is Satan?” see Meditations 19-21.

About “How to overcome the power of sin in my life and in my church?” see Meditations 101-121.

121. HOW TO OVERCOME THE POWER OF SIN IN MY LIFE? – How do I protect Jesus’ life within me against Satan’s attacks? (b)

In our last meditation we saw that our Lord Jesus Christ grants His powerful presence in the hearts of all God’s children. That is the precondition for overcoming Satan’s assaults. Obviously, we cannot lean back and let God’s Spirit do the entire job. We are called to be actively involved. We should not only grow strong in the Lord, but Paul persuades us also, saying:

“Be (or: grow, become) strong in ... His mighty power...” (Ephesians 6:10**)

For the apostle Paul overcoming Satan’s assaults is a continuous battle to win! In Meditation 120 we saw that I am never able to win that battle on my own because of my own sinful nature. Yet, as a child of God, my powerful Lord lives within me by His Spirit. He is stronger than Satan with all his demonic tactics.

Therefore, the question is: What is my responsibility in this continuous battle?

a.) To keep my relationship with Jesus Christ and His Spirit intact.

The Lord Himself warns us that we cannot win these battles on our own: “… apart from Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5*) The apostle Paul reminds us that we cannot resist Satan’s assaults if the Spirit of God does not control our lives. Paul writes to the Ephesian Christians: “Do not bring sorrow to God's Holy Spirit by the way you live.” (Ephesians 4:30*) The Christians in Thessaloniki he alerts: “Do not stifle the Holy Spirit.” (1 Thessalonians 5:19*)

b.) To acknowledge my inadequacy to win these battles because of my sinful nature.

Paul testifies: “Each time He said, "My gracious favor is all you need. My power works best in your weakness." So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may work through me.” (2 Corinthians 12:9*)

Already the prophet Isaiah (8^th century BC) declares that “God gives power to those who are tired and worn out; He offers strength to the weak. Even youths will become exhausted, and young men will give up. But those who wait on the LORD will find new strength. They will fly high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.” (Isaiah 40:29-31*)

To the Christians in Corinth (Greece) the apostle Paul sharply contrasts God’s power and our weakness so that we should not mix God’s power up with the incapacity of our sinful nature: “This precious treasure-- this light and power that now shine within us-- is held in perishable containers, that is, in our weak bodies. So everyone can see that our glorious power is from God and is not our own.” (2 Corinthians 4:7*)

c.) To submit to God’s leadership under combat conditions.

God knows Satan’s nature and demonic schemes completely. That’s why it is imperative to follow His orders. Already in the Old Testament we read how Israel fought under God’s leadership. Through Moses, God gave His people the rules of warfare they should keep: “Before you go into battle, the priest will come forward to speak with the troops. He will say, 'Listen to me, all you men of Israel! Do not be afraid as you go out to fight today! Do not lose heart or panic. For the LORD your God is going with you! He will fight for you against your enemies, and He will give you victory!'” (Deuteronomy 20:2-4*)

King David acknowledged God’s leadership in combat: “The LORD is my light and my salvation-- so why should I be afraid? The LORD protects me from danger-- so why should I tremble? When evil people come to destroy me, when my enemies and foes attack me, they will stumble and fall. Though a mighty army surrounds me, my heart will know no fear. Even if they attack me, I remain confident.” (Psalm 27:1-3*)

God encourages Israel in battle by mouth of the prophet Isaiah, saying: “Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you. I will help you. I will uphold you with my victorious right hand. See, all your angry enemies lie there, confused and ashamed. Anyone who opposes you will die. You will look for them in vain. They will all be gone! I am holding you by your right hand-- I, the LORD your God. And I say to you, Do not be afraid. I am here to help you.  Despised though you are, O Israel, don't be afraid, for I will help you. I am the LORD, your Redeemer. I am the Holy One of Israel.” (Isaiah 41:10-14*)

c.) To rely on God’s strategy and wisdom.

To submit to God’s leadership under combat conditions also means to wait for God’s commands and act on God’s initiative. I think of two instructions from the Psalms that also are applicable to relying on God’s leadership in a clash with Satan: “Wait patiently for the LORD. Be brave and courageous. Yes, wait patiently for the LORD.” (Psalm 27:14*) “Our soul waits for the LORD; He is our help and our shield.” (Psalm 33:20***)

Obviously, in the fire of conflict we sometimes might not know how to act wisely and in accordance with God’s will. Therefore, God inspired the apostle James to encourage us in such confusing situations with the words: “If you need wisdom-- if you want to know what God wants you to do-- ask Him, and He will gladly tell you. He will not resent your asking.” (James 1:5*) And king David (11^th century BC) testifies to God’s response when he needed His help: “When I called, You answered me; You made me bold and stout-hearted.” (Psalm 138:3*)

d.) To grow in understanding how to apply the power God’s Spirit provides in demonic encounters.

Not only does the Lord Jesus live through His powerful Spirit in my heart. He also wants to give me the power I need to stand firm during Satan’s attacks. The apostle Paul writes to the Christians in Ephesus: “I pray that you will begin to understand the incredible greatness of His power for us who believe Him.” (Ephesians 1:19*) To the believers in Colosse (Turkey) Paul writes: “We also pray that you will be strengthened with His glorious power so that you will have all the patience and endurance you need. May you be filled with joy...” (Colossians 1:11*) The apostle speaks to the Philippian Christians of his long experience with the application of Christ’s power in his life: “I can do everything with the help of Christ who gives me the strength I need.” (Philippians 4:13*)

In the last meditation we saw that our Lord Jesus Christ – by His Spirit - has granted His powerful presence in the hearts of all those who are born again. And in this meditation we realize how my relationship with Him should be if I want to overcome Satan’s assaults on Jesus’ life within me. In the following meditations we will discover how God wants us to defy Satan’s powerful attacks while we submit to His leadership under combat conditions.

Translations: * New Living Translation; ** New International Version; *** New King James Version

About conversion, see meditations 19-26.

About Holy Sprit’s ministry, rebirth or baptism in God’s Spirit, see meditations 27-34, 37 and 44.

About personal, Christlike love for God the Father and God the Son, see meditations 56-62.

About not bringing sorrow to God’s Spirit and not stifling Him, see meditations 49-55.

120. HOW TO OVERCOME THE POWER OF SIN IN MY LIFE? – How do I protect Jesus’ life within me against Satan’s attacks? (a)

In Meditation 108 I invited you to start ruminating on the question “How to overcome the power of sin in my life and in my church?” Then I suggested that we begin initially by focusing on our personal lives as Christians.

- In the Meditations 109 to 115 we looked into the question of why the acknowledgment of our Triune God is the pre-condition for victory over sin!

- In the Meditation 116 we saw that Jesus’ death and resurrection is the blueprint for action in overcoming the power of sin in my life.

- In the Meditations 117 and 118 we recognized that God’s Spirit has given me the ‘mind of Christ’ to understand God’s ways.

- In Meditation 119 we spoke about how Jesus’ life within me should direct and control my way of thinking.

We are left with the question: How do I protect Jesus’ life within me against Satan’s attacks?

For modern man, Satan is not a spiritual reality. In our day and age Satan has been banished to the realm of fantasy. Yet, God’s Word compels us to take his presence dead serious! In Meditation 20 we looked into the question: Who is Satan? And in Meditation 21 we asked ourselves if we can blame Satan for all our wrongdoings? At the end of that last meditation we came to the following conclusion: “Nowhere in the Bible do we read that we can blame Satan for our wrongdoings. On the contrary, God’s Word shows that we ourselves are responsible for turning away from God and for giving in to Satan’s scheming.”  

Yet, the assaults that Satan launches on the followers of Christ can be severe and manifold. He has the objective to hinder or even destroy Jesus’ life within us if that is possible. That’s why God moved the apostle Paul to provide us with the means to resist any attack. We find his life-saving modus operandi in his letter to the Christians in Ephesus (Turkey): Ephesians 6: 10-17. So, let us see in the next meditations what Paul wants us to do to overcome any Satanic attack.

“Be (or: grow, become) strong in the Lord...” (Ephesians 6:10**)

Right from the onset it is perfectly clear that Paul does not put the capacity to counter any Satanic attack within the human heart. From our meditations so far, it is obvious that we are not able to overcome Satan’s onslaught by using our own strength. Take a special look at Meditations 19, 101 and 102. There are principally two reasons for this:

1.) By nature our own heart revolts against God and His moral Law. God allowed the prophet Jeremiah to grasp something of the profound darkness of the human heart. That’s why he cries out in horror: “The human heart is most deceitful and desperately wicked. Who really knows how bad it is?” (Jeremiah 17:9*)

2.) Satan’s power over the unsaved human heart. Since the Fall (see Genesis 3) the unsaved human heart is in the clutches of Satan. The apostle Paul reminds his fellow Christians of the fact that they “used to live just like the rest of the world, full of sin, obeying Satan, the mighty prince of the power of the air. He is the spirit at work in the hearts of those who refuse to obey God.” (Ephesians 2:2*)

So, in this encouragement, the apostle prompts us to look away from ourselves if we seek to overcome Satan’s attacks. Paul points out that we should grow strong “in the Lord”. What does that mean practically?

a.) Our Lord Jesus Christ lives in us. Paul says to the Christians in Colosse (Turkey): “Christ lives in you, and this is your assurance that you will share in His glory.” (Colossians 1:27*) There are many verses in the New Testament that underline the reality of Christ living in all those who trust Him for salvation. That’s why Jesus’ life within me needs protection! Let me mention two more verses:

-- On the evening before Jesus’ death He said to His first disciples: “When I am raised to life again, you will know that I am in My Father, and you are in Me, and I am in you.” (John 14:20*)

-- Paul testifies of Christ’s presence in his own life when he writes to the Christians in Galatia (Turkey): “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20**)

The question remains: How does Christ live in us, knowing that God’s Word proclaims that He is enthroned in heaven? That leads us to the following point.

b.) Jesus lives in us by His Spirit. At the ‘Last Supper’ Jesus speaks about the mysterious unity between God the Father, God the Spirit and Himself. He promises to come and live with His disciples by His Spirit after His ascension: “I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Counsellor to be with you for ever -- the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept Him, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him. But you know Him, for He lives with you and will be in you.  I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. Before long, the world will not see Me any more, but you will see Me. Because I live, you also will live. On that day you will realise that I am in My Father, and you are in Me, and I am in you.” (John 14:16-20**)

The New Testament is full of passages that speak of God’s Spirit living in everyone who is a child of God. Let me only mention one text of Paul in which he shows that the Spirit of God and the Spirit of Christ are one and the same Person! The apostle writes to the Christians in Rome: “You are not controlled by your sinful nature. You are controlled by the Spirit if you have the Spirit of God living in you. (And remember that those who do not have the Spirit of Christ living in them are not Christians at all.)” (Romans 8:9*)

c.) Where God’s Spirit is, there is God’s power. The evangelist Luke already tells us this about Jesus’ earthly life: “No doubt you know that God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. Then Jesus went around doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the Devil, for God was with Him.” (Acts 10:38*)

The apostle Paul prays for his fellow-Christians in Ephesus (Greece): “I pray that you will begin to understand the incredible greatness of His power for us who believe Him. This is the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead and seated Him in the place of honor at God's right hand in the heavenly realms.” (Ephesians 1:19-20*)

And again Paul prays for them saying: “I pray that from His glorious, unlimited resources He will give you mighty inner strength through His Holy Spirit.” (Ephesians 3:16*)

Let me mention one more text. Paul reminds his young co-worker Timothy that “God has not given us a Spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.” (2 Timothy 1:7*)

d.) Becoming strong in the Lord means becoming filled with God’s Spirit. In Ephesians 6:10 Paul commands his fellow-Christians in Ephesus to become strong in the Lord. One chapter earlier he had commanded them already to become filled (i.e., controlled) by God’s Spirit. I think that by now it is clear that Paul points in both verses to the same reality: If Jesus Christ lives in our hearts and controls our lives by His Spirit, we will have the precondition to overcome any of Satan’s attacks. At this point I remember the words of the apostle John who wrote to his Christian audience: “... the One who is in you is greater than the one (i.e., Satan) who is in the world.” (1 John 4:4**)

Now that we have seen that our powerful Saviour offers His presence in our hearts as a precondition for overcoming Satan’s assaults, the question is: What do I need to do from my side?

That will be the subject of our next meditation.

Translations: * New Living Translation; ** New International Version