Week One: Who is Speaking These Lies and Why
Monday – Satan Tries to Deceive Us
Read: Genesis 3:1-4; John 8:44; Ephesians 6:11
SOAP: John 8:44; Ephesians 6:11
You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father’s desires. 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 out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies. John 8:44
SOAP: Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. Ephesians 6:11
Have you ever been on the receiving end of a lie? The deception stings like a swarm of bees to the soul. Satan, the father of lies, has plagued humanity since the Garden of Eden. When the serpent tempted Eve, he used half-truths to lure her to disobedience. Satan tempted Eve to focus on what God had forbidden instead of being thankful for all God had given her. Because Eve believed Satan’s lie she doubted God’s goodness and gave in to temptation.
We sometimes deny the craftiness and destructive power of Satan. We might picture him to be a cartoon character who exists only on Halloween. To diminish his capacity to harm is to ignore the warnings of Scripture.
Jesus warns of Satan’s character as a liar. He calls him the father of lies, without any truth in him. It is therefore in his nature to deceive.
Since Satan is actively scheming against us, we must arm ourselves against his deception. The Lord does not leave us empty-handed and defenseless. As our Great Provider, He has given us the spiritual armor to stand against anything Satan throws at us.
In what area of your life are you struggling to see the truth about yourself, your relationship, or your circumstance? The father of lies is actively trying to prevent you from understanding the plan God has for you. Today, remember that God has given you everything you need to stand against the devil.
Father God, in times when the line between the truth and the lie looks blurry, help me look to You to be my guide. Help me remember Your Word. Thank You for giving me everything I need to stand against deceit. Search my heart and show me Your Truth throughout this study. In Jesus’ name, Amen.