A FAKE SPIDER
Police in Switzerland scrambled after receiving a panicked report that a giant bird-eating spider was spotted on the desk of a business owner. But arriving on the scene, the cops quickly discovered the spider was a fake.
The employees were not fined for wasting police time, since they made the call out of genuine concern. However, they required the workers to sit through a twenty-minute lecture on how to discern the difference between real spiders and plastic toys. (Source: SermonNews, August 2012)
Like a phony spider, Satan loves to fill our hearts with fear. And like that spider, he’s a fake and a fraud. In John 8:44 Jesus states that Satan “is a liar and the father of all lies.” He loves to take a tiny concern, and inflate it until we’re freaked out, like seeing a giant fake spider.
Here’s the truth. If we’re in Christ, Satan can’t harm us, because Jesus has destroyed his power. Hebrews 2:14 states that Jesus “died to destroy the devil, who had power over death” (CEV). Shortly before he died, Jesus declared “Now is the judgment of this world; now will the ruler of this world be cast out” (John 12:31). Sure, the enemy can make us uncomfortable and miserable. Just ask Job. But don’t live in fear of his power. He’s nothing but a fake spider.
Over 100 times scripture tells us to fear God. Having a healthy reverential respect for The Almighty preserves and protects us from devastating harm. Guess how many times the Bible tells us to fear Satan. Let’s see… that would be… Zero! Why fear something with no power over us? Why fear someone who’s already defeated? If we so choose, can live free from fear of the devil
At the same time, don’t get the impression that Satan is some kind of cute little cartoon figure. First Peter 5:8 describes him as “a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” Treat his deceptions seriously, because he wants to destroy us.
If you’re living in fear of Satan, declare Christ’s victory over him, and bask in that victory. Ask God for strength, and turn your eyes upon Jesus. Satan may have us lined up in his crosshairs, but don’t fear him. His poisonous fangs aren’t real. Jesus has crushed his head. He’s nothing but a big fat lying fake spider.
Principle: Jesus destroyed the power of Satan at the cross.
Ponder:
At what times or situations do you experience the fear of the devil?
How can you claim your victory over him through Christ?
Pursue: For a deeper dive, study Colossians 2:6-15.
Prayer: “Lord Jesus, I praise you for your victory over the devil. Right now, in your name, Jesus, I cast Satan out and command him to flee from me.”
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