Satan is a topic most of us would rather not discuss. Nevertheless, God has issued some vital information about the enemy of our souls, and we would do well to hear Him. Last time we looked at Satan as he relates to God. In this brief article, we will consider Satan’s abuse of the Word of God.
First, you should know that Satan destroys the effects of the Word of God in unwary lives. In Jesus’ explanation of the parable of the sower and soils, He said, “And these are they by the way side, where the word is sown; but when they have heard, Satan cometh immediately, and taketh away the word that was sown in their hearts. (Mark 4:15).” When a person begins to understand the Word of God, Satan might say, “Your mind is playing tricks on you; sin is not nearly so deadly as you think,” or “God is a God of love; He will not hold it against you.” My friend, Satan lies! (John 8:44).
Secondly, Satan misquotes, misinterprets or misapplies the Word. When he tempted Christ in the wilderness with a quote from Psalm 91, he taunted, “If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone. (Matthew 4:6).” This was an effort to get Jesus to test the faithfulness of God in a foolhardy exhibition of faith — a gross misappropriation of the promise. Jesus exposed his wicked intention when He answered with a verse of His own, “Ye shall not tempt the LORD your God,… (Deut. 6:16a ).”
Admittedly, the Psalm quoted by the devil says that God will protect, but the promise is made to those who “dwell in the secret place of the most High (Psalm 91:1).” One who lives in the presence of the Almighty, will have no desire, or need, to test His faithfulness. Just because your car has air bags doesn’t mean that you should run into a tree.
We must not allow Satan to snatch away the Word, one precept at a time by misquoting, misinterpreting, or misapplying it.