To keep Satan from getting the advantage over us; for we are not ignorant of his wiles and intentions.
2 Corinthians 2:11 AMPC
In John 10:10, Scripture tells us that “the thief comes only to steal, kill, and destroy.” The devil has no other mission—he is relentless in his pursuit of destruction. He is a master deceiver, skilled in manipulation and lies. His ministry is so refined that without vigilance, one can fall victim to his schemes without even realising it.
Do you know that someone can be robbed without their awareness? The same applies spiritually. A lack of watchfulness gives the devil an edge, allowing him to infiltrate lives unnoticed. Therefore, Scripture warns us to beware of “the little foxes that spoil the vineyard”. A small compromise, an unchecked thought, or a neglected spiritual discipline can create an opening for the enemy.
Are you adequately guarded, or has the devil stolen from you? Is your joy intact, or has he replaced it with a spirit of heaviness? The devil often attacks a believer’s mind, sowing fear, chaos, and anxiety to distract them from God’s plan. If he cannot entice you into outright sin, he will attempt to shake your peace. This is why it is crucial to let the Word of God dwell in you richly—it is the strongest defence against the enemy’s schemes.
A tragic example of someone who fell victim to the devil’s tactics is Judas Iscariot. Although he walked closely with Jesus, his mind became so corrupted by the enemy that he ultimately betrayed the Lord and ended up in destruction. His physical proximity to Jesus did not shield him from the enemy’s attack, and he ended up lost. Peter also faced a similar assault, but by God’s grace, he received restoration. This illustrates the devil’s ultimate goal—destruction. He has nothing great to offer.
So, to prevent the enemy from taking hold of your mind, you must remain watchful. Fill your heart daily with God’s truth, surround yourself with like-minded believers, and do not be ignorant of the devil’s schemes. Guard your heart with diligence. Also, ensure that you give no opening to the enemy. Prevention is always better than cure. Once the devil gains access and begins his work of stealing, the path leads inevitably to death and destruction. That is the summation of his ministry.
Be vigilant, be prayerful, and stay anchored in God’s Word. Do not give the enemy any foothold in your life. By this, you will stay victorious.