What practical steps can we take to resist the dragon's influence in our lives? Seeing the Dragon Clearly Revelation 12:3 pictures “a huge red dragon with seven heads and ten horns.” This is not myth but a literal portrait of Satan’s real, organized opposition to God and His people. Before we can resist, we must refuse to downplay or romanticize him. • Revelation 12:9 calls him “the ancient serpent…who leads the whole world astray.” • 1 Peter 5:8 warns, “Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour”. Knowing we face a living enemy keeps us watchful, not fearful. Standing on Christ’s Completed Victory • Revelation 12:11: “They have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.” • Colossians 2:15 shows Jesus already “disarmed the powers and authorities.” Practical step: Preach the gospel to yourself daily. When tempted, declare aloud that the blood of Jesus has already broken Satan’s legal claim on you. Putting On the Full Armor Every Morning Ephesians 6:10-18 lays out the armor of God. Act on it deliberately: 1. Belt of truth—start the day with Scripture before news or social media. 2. Breastplate of righteousness—confess sin quickly; wear Christ’s righteousness, not self-effort. 3. Shoes of readiness—be alert for gospel opportunities. 4. Shield of faith—quote promises when fiery darts of doubt come. 5. Helmet of salvation—fix identity on being redeemed, not on circumstances. 6. Sword of the Spirit—memorize verses for areas where you’re weak. 7. Prayer—stay in live conversation with the Commander. Guarding the Gates of Mind and Heart • Psalm 119:11: “I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You.” • Philippians 4:8 calls us to dwell on what is pure and lovely. Practical ideas: • Set phone filters and accountability software. • Replace background noise with worship music or audio Scripture. • When a toxic thought enters, obey 2 Corinthians 10:5—“take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” Living in Gospel Community Lone Christians are easy prey. God gives protection through fellowship. • Hebrews 10:24-25—meet regularly, spur one another on. • James 5:16—confess sins to one another and pray. Action points: • Join a small group where honesty is normal. • Find an accountability partner; text each other victory verses during tempting times. • Serve together—shared mission diminishes self-focused struggles. Keeping a Worshipful Watch • James 4:7: “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” Submission happens through continual worship. • Singing, thanksgiving, and fasting are offensive weapons; they shift attention from the dragon’s roar to the Lamb’s song. Set alarms through the day to pause and thank God for specific mercies; the dragon hates praise. Responding Immediately to Temptation When Jesus was tempted (Matthew 4), He answered each lie with “It is written.” Delay gives the dragon room. • Decide beforehand which verses you will speak for recurring temptations. • Move your body—walk, call a believer, or change location to break the moment. • Replace the forbidden desire with a righteous action (give, encourage, serve). Anticipating Final Triumph Revelation 12 promises Satan’s time is short. Every act of resistance now rehearses the day when “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ” (Revelation 11:15). Hold that certainty close, and the dragon’s influence loses its power. |
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