The one who practices sin is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the very start. This is why the Son of God was revealed, to destroy the works of the devil.

— 1 John 3:8

And He said to them, “I beheld Satan having fallen as lightning out of heaven.

— Luke 10:18

1 And you were dead in your trespasses and sins,

2 in which you used to walk when you conformed to the ways of this world and of the ruler of the power of the air, the spirit who is now at work in the sons of disobedience.

— Ephesians 2:1-2

8 Be sober-minded and alert. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.

9 Resist him, standing firm in your faith and in the knowledge that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kinds of suffering.

— 1 Peter 5:8-9

Thoughts on Today’s Reading

Grace, salvation and joy from Jesus Christ to you.

The book of Revelation dramatically portrays Satan and his demon armies, who fight against God and attempt to terrorize His people. Though eternally defeated by Christ’s victory on the cross, Satan will continue to spew his venomous hatred until the day God banishes him forever. Now loose on earth, Satan is a terrible enemy whose power and influence are nevertheless limited by God. Since he is neither omnipotent, nor omniscient, nor omnipresent, Satan’s destructive power is no match for God’s power. Ultimately, God will prevail over hell’s fury and the enemy of His people.

Because Satan works as an unseen spirit, many do not acknowledge his presence or existence. Nonetheless, Scripture reveals otherwise. Satan led a large angelic revolt against God and was cast out of heaven. Now Satan and his demonic forces operate as a real force in this world, continuing to perpetuate rebellion against God. Praise the Lord! Though Satan utilizes lies, murder, hatred and evil to try to defeat God and His people, that will not happen.