Spiritual War: Satan Is Limited

Since the great battle, the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the Enemy of our souls has been severely handicapped.

His power is limited. :But he was not strong enough, and they lost their place in heaven. 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” (Rev. 12:8–9).

His intelligence is limited. “No, we speak of God’s secret wisdom, a wisdom that has been hidden and that God destined for our glory before time began. None of the rulers of this age understood it, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory” (1 Cor. 2:7–8).

His time is limited, and he knows it. “Therefore rejoice, you heavens and you who dwell in them! But woe to the earth and the sea, because the devil has gone down to you! He is filled with fury, for he knows that his time is short” (Rev. 12:12).

Yet his arrogance is unlimited. “How you have fallen from heaven, O morning star, son of the dawn! You have been cast down to the earth, you who once laid low the nations! You said in your heart, ‘I will ascend to heaven; I will raise my throne above the stars of God; I will sit enthroned on the mount of assembly, on the utmost heights of the sacred mountain. I will ascend above the tops of the clouds; I will make myself like the Most High’” (Is. 14:12–14).

We should know of Satan’s limitations. We should remember that he is limited and not be intimidated as if Satan had omnipotent power.

So why are so many Christians defeated?

• They are unaware of the devil’s schemes and his character.

• They have not put on their complete armor.

• They believe Satan or his ministers.

• They are not alert and self-controlled.

• They think it is normal to sin.

• They do not think that they have been delivered from the power of Satan.

“Now get up and stand on your feet. I have appeared to you to appoint you as a servant and as a witness of what you have seen of me and what I will show you. I will rescue you from your own people and from the Gentiles. I am sending you to them to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me” (Acts 26:16–18).

*Excerpted from Weapons & Tactics. To purchase, visit ccmbooks.org/bookstore.