I had a brief chat with a middle-aged man the other day. While talking about childhood experiences, he mentioned that they stopped going to their hometown since his teenage years. When I asked why, the excuse he gave got me thinking; “Pastor, we have too many enemies in that village.” I understood what he meant, but I also supplied him some understanding about spiritual warfare.
Friend, the devil is your real enemy (Revelation 12:9-12). If you keep thinking that one human being somewhere is your real enemy or the one behind your problem, then the devil has already gotten you. This is part of the strategy of the devil. He wants to be anonymous. He wants you to face your fellow human and leave him alone. He wants you to fight a carnal battle rather than a spiritual one (2 Corinthians 10:3-5).
While the devil can use human beings against you, you need to recognise the spirit behind them. Why do you think that Jesus addressed Satan and not Peter himself (Matthew 16:22-23)? Because He knew it was not Peter but Satan using him. This is why Jesus continued relating with Peter after casting out the devil in him.
Did you also notice that the Bible stated that Satan entered into Judas in order to betray Jesus (Luke 22:3-4)? You need to identify the people that Satan has entered into in order to fight you or your destiny. Satan can enter into your spouse, children, colleague, customer, church member, etc. You need to do what Jesus did. Cast out that devil and retain the relationship (Luke 22:31-32).
In some peculiar cases, if you cannot cast out the devil in a person, you simply cast the person and the devil out of your life (Proverbs 22:10). Some people would not yield to deliverance, cast them out of your life and space. But never take them as your enemy. The devil is your real enemy, not human beings.
Ultimately, the devil is not fighting you. He is only fighting God’s purpose in your life (Matthew 2:16-23). If you are not fulfilling purpose, the devil won’t fight you. He does not need to fight you because he already has you in his pocket. Don’t compare yourself to others. The fact that someone is facing the least resistance may be an indication that they are not fulfilling purpose. Rise and fight the good fight (2 Timothy 4:7-8). Amen!
‘Demola Awoyele
Lead Pastor,
Destiny Impact Church
Akure, Nigeria