3/30/25 The enemy’s strategy
- Fr. Patrick Bush
- Mar 30
- 2 min read
Takeaway: Jesus offers abundant life, to which we overcome the enemy’s schemes.
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” — John 10:10
Opening Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your Word and the abundant life You offer through Jesus. As I reflect on Your truth today, open my heart to recognize the enemy’s schemes and strengthen me to stand firm in Your promises. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Reflection
In John 10:10, Jesus reveals the stark contrast between His mission and the enemy’s agenda. Ultimately, the enemy’s agenda is to rob us of God’s best. They are subtle, but effective and can be devastating.
The Enemy’s strategy:
Stealing Our Joy and Peace – Seeds of doubt, fear, and anxiety, cause us to question God’s goodness. This distorts our perspective, making us believe that our circumstances define our worth.
Killing Our Faith – a weakened faith is due to a lack of trust in God. Disappointments, unanswered prayers, and hardships persuade us to believe that God is distant or uncaring causing us to not trust in God’s promises.
Destroying Our Purpose – Distractions, busyness, and sin, lead us away from God’s calling. All of these deceive us to believing that worldly success or self-sufficiency is the ultimate goal.
But Jesus offers a diffferent way. He came so that we may have life to the full—a life overflowing with His grace, peace, and power. His victory on the cross has already defeated the enemy’s schemes. When we abide in Christ, we walk in the fullness of His promises, no longer prey to the thief’s deception.
Question
In what ways have you experienced the enemy trying to steal your joy and peace? How can you counteract doubt and fear with God’s truth?
Application
• Guard Your Joy and Peace. Practice gratitude daily and remind yourself that your worth is found in Christ, not in your circumstances.
• Strengthen Your Faith. Keep a prayer journal to record answered prayers and moments when God has provided. Surround yourself with a community of believers who encourage and uplift your faith.
• Live in the Fullness of Christ. Look for ways to serve others, share His love, and live with the confidence that His victory over the enemy is already won.
Closing Prayer
Lord, open my eyes to the enemy’s strategies. Help me stand firm in Your truth and not be swayed by his lies. Fill me with the abundant life You have promised, and let me walk in the confidence of Your victory. Amen.
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