The Enemy Is Sly.

First, he harasses you. Relentlessly.

Then, just when you begin to recognise and expose him, he vanishes from the scene like he was never there, only to emerge somewhere else and stir up fresh havoc.

He always leaves just in time -before you can unmask him as the face behind the confusion, pain, and bondage you have been wrestling with. It is a highly effective tactic which ensures that while you celebrate your breakthrough, you lose sight of the real culprit, in whose absence your victory can feel hollow.

It is tempting to quickly move on from your victories, thinking them obvious, as if they were the natural result of life in its progression. But you know that they are not! Because if they were, everybody would be walking in freedom.

Yet, look at you:

You walked away from anger, bitterness, and unforgiveness.

Sexual addiction—pornography, masturbation, lust—they lost their grip on you.

You broke free from the bondage of drugs and alcohol and stepped into sobriety.

You found peace, purpose, and joy.

You shed the cloak of low self-esteem and put on the dashing confidence that comes with life in Jesus Christ.

You are now a supermodel in the identity fashion house of Jesus Christ.

That is freedom!

Now, do not just enjoy it. Be also absolutely clear about who was behind the chains that once held you. He has a name: Satan, that devious illusionist with no real power except the lies he sells and the confusion he sows.

In all of this, his goal is simple: to make you forget he was ever involved. So do not fall for the trap. Do not let him re-enter your life under a new disguise.

If you are in Christ and still struggling, please hear this:

It is a game of illusion. Just smoke and mirrors. The fight may feel real, but the chains are already broken. Do not be discouraged. The battle was won at the Cross 2000 years ago. You are already free.

And if you’re not in Christ:

Why keep struggling under a cruel master?

Rebel against your oppressor and come to Jesus,

Only in Him is there true and lasting freedom.

“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” John 8:36