Scheme of intimidation

By Sidharth Mohandas

As believers we must realize that Satan is not a figment of our imagination, nor is he a clownish character. He has been in this business with humanity for thousands of years and so we must be wise in our dealings with him.

Studying ourselves, we come to realize that for us everything starts with words. We hear a report by word, which is taken up by our mind and our thoughts go into action, the thoughts stimulate emotions and the emotions stimulate us to act. Satan has studied us closely and he knows how we function and because he can’t bulldoze us who believe into acting or reacting to things the way he wants us to, he slowly and cunningly sows words into our minds. He camouflages himself and makes us think what we heard doesn’t have it’s origin in him. Whether the mode he uses is lies, deception, intimidation, or accusation, it all starts with words.

Today I want to particularly concentrate on his weapon of intimidation. In 2 Chronicles 32, we see Satan threatening king Hezekiah through Sennacherib king of Assyria. Scripture tells us that the purpose of their threats was so that they could capture the Israelites’ city [2 Chronicles 32:18]. Satan uses lying threats to steal what God has given us. Here are some common threats:

• “Your son has been diagnosed with an awful disease. This is a very serious disease and it can even take his life. Remember that person who prayed and still died of the same disease?” He [satan] may use a doctor to speak medical terms to intimidate you so that he can steal the healing that God has given you.
  
• “You have committed the unpardonable sin and now God has nothing to do with you.”
  
• “You have never been able to hold up a relationship. This one is going to fail too. If you get close, they’re going to hate you and look down on you.”
  
• “You have so many loans to pay and you don’t have enough money to take care of yourself and your family. God isn’t going to provide, that’s all make-believe.”
  
• “Everyone is gonna stare at you when you get on stage. And they’ll laugh at you”

  
  Peter walked on the water, but began sinking when he saw the wind and became afraid.

  But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, began to sink [Matthew 14:30]

  Here are some useful steps you and I can follow:

  1. Do not look to/analyze the negative report/word the problem carries with it. It has nothing good to offer but fears and uncertainties.
  2. Recognize that ALL fears have its origin in satan.
  3. Pray using truths from the Word concerning the area that you are struggling with
  4. Thank the Lord with your voice [you may use songs to help you thank Him].
  5. Choose not to discuss about the report that satan has given, speak faith and courage.

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