When we think about the choices and decisions that we make we usually don’t think about what or who is influencing them. When we have thoughts come to our mind, rather good or bad ones, we take them as just our thoughts. When we respond to our emotions or a situation, we look at it as just a natural response. But have you gave much thought to why you do, say, think, or react to things in a negative way, the way that you do? Sure we all have learned ways of behavior, and yes there are what some call “natural responses,” but there is also something else at work, influencing us in a negative way.

We all have a enemy, called Satan, that is at work trying to keep us from having the victory in life that Jesus died for us to be able to have. We are all in a spiritual battle every day. Satan is always trying to influence our thoughts, our words, our feelings, our actions, our decisions, and our choices. Many think of their struggles as just a part of daily life. They do not recognize that it is the devil that is at work within them and in their circumstances. He is very deliberate in his approach to us. He attacks our mind first. He knows that our emotions and our actions come from our thoughts. So if he can get control of our thoughts then he can control everything else about us. But we have the power of the Holy Spirit within us, which is more powerful than satan, to fight against all of Satan’s attacks and to win each one. Although he can not touch our salvation or our eternal life, he can thwart God’s plan for our lives. He will do all that he can to keep us from the blessings that God has promised us. So it is vital that we become aware of when he is trying to influence our thoughts, behavior, and/or actions.

When we are aware of the control that satan is attempting to have on us we can readily stand against him. We can go to God in prayer, put on our armor of God, and stand against satan to prevent him from being able to have a influence on us. When we are in constant communion with God and following His direction satan can try to influence us but he will not be able to control us. He can only have control of what we allow him to have control of. The Holy Spirit will always lead us to what is best for us. And when we are following His lead we know that satan can not control us. So I ask you, how much control of yourself and your life do you really have? Do you see areas that satan has been influencing you to do differently than what God says to do? If so take back the control that you have given over to the enemy and stand firm in the truth of God’s word. Stand against the attacks and follow the Holy Spirits guidance. Pray that God empower you to resist all temptations and attacks of the enemy so that you may walk in His will for you instead of being deceived. God has your back!!