Last Sunday, I led the congregation in a sermon on resisting the devil. As Christians, we often lean toward worldly pleasures and spiritual battles that lead to inviting the devil into our lives. Luckily, the teaching led us to many scriptures in the bible that guided us. At the end of the day, what most wanted to find out was, how to resist the devil and make him flee.
James 4:7 suggests that believers should submit themselves to God and draw near to Him. This scripture implies that when we do this, we can resist the devil so that he flees from us.
In this article, I invite you to join me as we delve into the topic of resisting the devil. We will also uncover answers to the most asked questions such as, what it means to resist the devil, ways to do so, and how to apply this to our daily lives. Read on to find the answers.
Where in the bible does it say to resist the devil?
The book of James 4:7 implies that when we resist the devil, he flees from us. This means that as Christians, we can always choose not to fall into temptation. We do this by reading God’s Word and remaining prayerful.
Additionally, 1 Peter 5:8-9 says ‘Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of suffering.’ This scripture insinuates that the devil is always watching out for the weak in spirit to tempt them and use them for his evil deeds. This is why we should always be keen and remain strong in prayer to resist the devil.
Ephesians 4:25-27 also encourages Christians to resist the devil by avoiding sin and other wrongdoings. The temptation of Jesus in the wilderness, in Matthew 4:1-11, is a good example of how we can resist the devil and make him flee. According to this verse, the devil tempted Him thrice, yet He never faltered and thus had the power to resist the evil one. Similarly, we are encouraged to resist the devil.
What does it mean to resist the devil and make him flee?
To resist means to keep away from or to withstand something. Resisting the devil is a defensive tactic that Christians are, according to the bible, expected to do, to withstand the temptation to sin. Remember that as Christians, we are enticed many times by worldly desires. Yet the scriptures encourage us to focus on God and not the material things of the earth which eventually lead us to the devil’s evil ways. Falling into temptation is the easiest way for the devil to enter our lives. This is why James 1:14 warns against those that fall into their desires.
Ephesians 6:13-17 also implies that there is another maneuver that Christians can use to make the devil flee. The scripture suggests that we are to use the Word of God, righteousness, truth, faith, peace, salvation, and prayer to fight the devil.
The devil is afraid of a spiritual person who is armed with the Word. He knows that he cannot win over a man of God who is ready to take up a battle against him. This is why the scripture speculates that he will flee when we resist him.
Does ‘Resist the Devil, and He Will Flee’ Still Apply Today?
Yes. Psalms 1:1-3 implies that it is important to be ruled by the Word and obey all that it instructs. As Christians, sticking to the Word every day automatically invites Him into our lives and leads us to resist the devil. This is because the Word guides our steps and prevents us from falling into temptation.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-17 suggests that we should pray without ceasing. As we engage in prayer, we open our hearts to God. We also arm ourselves spiritually, to take up any fight that the devil can throw at us. This is what leads him to flee since he grows afraid of fighting God’s people.
The scriptures encourage us to remain humble before the Lord, and He will lift us. Luke 14:11 insinuates that being humble keeps us away from sinful ways or thoughts. Staying humble in our daily actions keeps us from rising in the wrong ways, which is sinful. This makes us resist the devil.
Ways to resist the devil and make him flee?
Submit to God
James 4:7 urges us to resist the devil so that he can flee from us. Yet before this statement, the Bible explains first what we ought to do so all this occurs. The scripture asks us to submit to our Lord. In this regard, 1 Peter 5:6-7 speculates that when we humble ourselves before God, we are submitting ourselves to Him, and so He lifts us. We are also encouraged to call on Him in our times of need, and He will always answer us (Jeremiah 33:3).
Draw closer to Him
When we go forward before God and depend on Him alone, then we create a relationship with Him. In turn, He protects us from evil and sin, and we fully remain resistant to the devil. The scriptures insinuate that when we remain in Him, He will also remain in us (John 15:4). This, therefore, guarantees you, who allow Christ into your life, not leave room for the devil because there is no way he can dwell where God is.
Not to Fall into Temptation
I love the biblical story of Jesus when He went to the Mount of Olives to pray. He tells his disciples to pray that they do not fall into temptation (Luke 22:40). Why? Because when we are led into temptation, we end up sinning, and sin is of the devil (1 John 3:8). So when we defeat temptations thrown at us every day, we resist the devil (Matthew 26:41).
As a devout Christian, I have always been passionate about the Christian faith. This inspired me to pursue a degree in Religious studies and a Masters in Theology in college. I have also been privileged to teach 4 Christian courses in a college and university. Since I am dedicated to spreading the word of God, I am actively involved in the Church. Additionally, I share his word online and cover diverse topics on the Christian faith through my platform. You can read more about me on the about us page.
