It Is Written

Satan exalted himself in five I will statements.

Isaiah 14:13-14 records these arrogant declarations, "You said in your heart, "I will ascend to the heavens; I will raise my throne above the stars of God; I will sit enthroned on the mount of assembly, on the utmost heights of Mount Zaphon. I will ascend above the tops of the clouds; I will make myself like the Most High." (NIV).

While Satan lifts himself up, it says in Revelation 12:12, he has come down to the earth with great wrath because his time is short. His target is the believers, you and me, because of Christ in us. Generations since the Fall have proven to him our flesh is the worst enemy with him doing very little to cause us to stumble. Provoke the flesh with the poison of pride and a fall is most certain!

We need not to cower or bow to the threats of the Enemy. We arm ourselves by standing on the promises of God. A God who can not lie counters a Devil who is the father of lies. That one weapon is the truth written in God's Word that is indeed a double-edged sword.

First, we submit to God (this opposes the spirit of rebellion and pride). James 4:7 gives us the promise that if submit to God, when we resist the devil, he will flee. Often submission to God will mean repenting of trying to fight in our strength or giving into the lies of the Enemy. Once you have confessed, it's under the blood of Jesus. The devil has nothing on you so it makes resisting him much easier.

How do we resist?

When Jesus was sorely tempted by the devil, He said firmly and with authority, "It is written."

Brother and sisters, learn to say this phrase along with a Scripture the Holy Spirit gives you. If you are in His word daily, He will help you recall that particular verse needed in that hour.

Are you having trouble with wicked or remorseful thoughts? Respond by saying (speak aloud not in your head because faith comes by hearing God's word - listen to the Scripture with new ears and understanding) "It is written, I will think on the things that are right, lovely and true (Philippians 4:8).

By saying "it is written" you acknowledge the authority of God's Word. And follow up by saying, "I will" as an agreement to the Word of God. This is a powerful weapon against the schemes of the evil one. It bring about great victory and relief when the Enemy taunts you with regretful memories or any other temptation.

One other example, you suffer from nightmares or can't sleep. "It is written, God gives his beloved rest (Psalms 172:2) so I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, Lord, only makest me dwell in safety (Psalms 4:8 , KJV).

Finally, beloved, you don't need to acknowledge or talk to the Devil. Don't engage him, remember he's enraged! Dismiss him by being submitted to Christ, declaring God's truth and agreeing to His word. It might not always go well but God is faithful to aid us against our Enemy who is already defeated by the cross!