Deceptive Role Model

“No wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light.”—2 Corinthians 11:14 NASB

To many, Satan represents an attitude they admire. They applaud his independent spirit. In the process, he has become a kind of role model—a hero to those who reject God’s Word and desire to go their own way.

Satan approaches us in the same way he approached Adam and Eve, whom he urged to reject God’s direction and live by their own rules (Genesis 3:1–7). To them, he positioned God as the enemy of freedom and pleasure.

We see these characteristics in Satan’s interaction with Jesus as he tried to tempt Him (Matthew 4:1–11). We see this in the way he “incited” David to ignore God and count the Israelites (1 Chronicles 21:1). And his example provides a model for people throughout history.

Satan seeks to make the darkness seem like light. A master of disguise, he tries to make God sound like the villain. He wants us to believe that he is on our side.

Paul knew that Satan seeks to deceive and take advantage of people, to trick them into believing his propaganda. He knew that we need to be on guard so “no advantage would be taken of us by Satan.” He made sure that “we are not ignorant of his schemes” (2 Corinthians 2:11).

Make sure you are alert to deception. Fill your mind with God’s Word. Don’t believe Satan’s lies even if they sound believable. Trust God completely.

Reflection Question: How can you learn to spot Satan’s lies?