Taking a Stand Against the Wiles of the Devil

 Greetings in Jesus' Name!

Praise the Lord, everyone! As we approach this Thanksgiving season, may the Lord bless you with joy, love, and gratitude. Thanksgiving is a special time for us to gather with family and friends, filling our hearts with gratitude and our bellies with a feast! But let us also take a moment to remember those who may feel lonely or are going through difficult times. Let us pray for them and invite them to share in the blessings of this season. If you know someone who may be alone, take the opportunity to reach out, offer kindness, and be a light in their lives.

At Christ the Rock New Life Center Ministries, we believe in the power of fellowship and prayer. This Thanksgiving, our Senior Center will host a special dinner event to bring people together and ensure no one is left feeling isolated. Let’s keep praying for those who may be struggling and extend our love to those in need.

Taking a Stand Against the Wiles of the Devil



This week, I’d like to share a message from 1 Peter 5:8 (Amplified Bible):
"Be sober [well balanced and self-disciplined], be alert and cautious at all times. That enemy of yours, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion [fiercely hungry], seeking someone to devour."

The topic of today’s study is "Taking a Stand Against the Wiles of the Devil."

The greatest battlefield of spiritual warfare is not physical—it’s the mind. The enemy seeks to deceive, manipulate, and fill our minds with doubt, confusion, and lies. But as children of God, we are called to guard our hearts and minds through His Word.

Understanding the Wiles of the Devil

The word “wiles” comes from the Greek word methodos, meaning “with a road.” It signifies that the devil operates with a single purpose, traveling down a road of cunning, crafty deception aimed directly at our minds. Contrary to popular belief, Satan doesn’t have endless tricks; instead, he uses one avenue to attack: our thoughts.

Satan plays mind games to manipulate our emotions and decisions. The Bible warns us to be alert and aware of his schemes. In 2 Corinthians 2:11, Apostle Paul reminds us: "We are not ignorant of Satan’s devices." The term “devices” here refers to deceived thoughts that the enemy plants to confuse and lead us away from God’s truth.

Breaking the Chains of Deception

Many of us, even seasoned Christians, struggle with feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, or negativity. These thoughts are tools of the enemy to keep us bound in fear and defeat. But remember, you are a child of God! He has given us the authority to cast down these imaginations and take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5).

Here’s how we can fight back:

  1. Recognize the Lies: Acknowledge when thoughts of defeat or despair come from the enemy. They are designed to rob you of your peace and joy.
  2. Rebuke Negative Thoughts: Speak against these thoughts in Jesus’ name. Say, "I rebuke these lies, and I claim victory through Christ!"
  3. Fill Your Mind with God’s Word: Meditate on Scripture and renew your mind daily. God’s truth is the ultimate weapon against the enemy’s deception.
  4. Pray Without Ceasing: Prayer is a powerful tool to guard your heart and mind. Lean on God’s strength and invite Him into every area of your life.

Encouragement for the Journey

Satan may try to plant seeds of doubt, but he is not omnipresent, and he cannot stand against the power of the Holy Spirit within us. We must stop listening to the lies and start speaking God’s truth over our lives. Declare victory, rebuke negative thoughts, and remind yourself that you are loved and chosen by God.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure, remember this: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." – Philippians 4:13

Final Thoughts

As we celebrate Thanksgiving, let us be mindful of the enemy’s schemes but stand firm in the promises of God. Take this time to encourage someone who may be struggling and remind them of God’s unending love. Pray for safe travels, joyous gatherings, and a spirit of gratitude in all that we do.

Thank you to everyone who supports our ministry, whether through prayer, fellowship, or generous donations. We are grateful for you! May you have a blessed and safe Thanksgiving in the mighty name of Jesus.

God bless you all!

In Christ,
Pastor Johnny Sandoval Jr.
Christ the Rock New Life Center Ministries


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