Satan Attacks

Like all the disciples, there were things Judas didn’t understand. But Judas seemed particularly vulnerable. We see him becoming upset when a woman anointed Jesus with “very costly perfume of pure nard.” To him, this was wasteful. After this incident, Judas went to the chief priests to betray Jesus (Mark 14:1-10).

Judas may have had his own feelings, but during this time Satan also “entered” into him. In a similar manner, John tells us that Satan “entered into” Judas after he ate a morsel during the Last Supper (John 13:27).

Convinced he was right, Judas betrayed Jesus for 30 pieces of silver. But after Jesus was condemned, Judas “felt remorse” and realized he had betrayed an innocent man. Feeling utterly hopeless, Judas “went away and hanged himself” (Matthew 27:3-5).

This tragic story gives us insights into how Satan tries to work in our lives. He can prey on our thoughts and emotions. He can twist words and plant ideas in our minds. He can attack us and distract us from the work God has called us to do, and even make it seem foolish to follow Jesus. He can manipulate the media, politicians, and others to ridicule our faith. He can accuse us so we become overcome with guilt and feel like failures.

Today, realize that Satan will try to take advantage of you. You must not be “ignorant of his schemes” (2 Corinthians 2:11). Make sure you are on guard. Remember that your “struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.” Make sure that you are “strong in the Lord,” fully equipped for spiritual warfare (Ephesians 6:10-17).

Remember: Through Jesus’ name, you have authority over Satan and all his demons.