Subtle and Crafty

In C.S. Lewis’ classic book, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, one of the boys, Edmund, entered the imaginary kingdom of Narnia alone. There, he encountered the White Witch, who used her magic to produce a wonderful-tasting drink. He was impressed.

When she asked what food he’d like, Edmund requested Turkish Delight. She produced a fancy box containing a dessert that tasted better than anything he had ever had.

As he gorged himself, she pumped him for information about his brother and sisters. When he wanted more Turkish Delight, she promised to give him all he wanted, if he brought them to her. Only later did he realize that he had betrayed his siblings and had been manipulated by the Queen’s deception.

Lewis used this story to help us see how subtly Satan can deceive us. We see this when the serpent twisted God’s words and enticed Eve to eat the fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Like Edmund looking at Turkish Delight, she saw only a tree that “was desirable to make one wise.” He promised only good things and Eve believed his lies.

Every day, we can see displays of Satan’s deception all around us. As Paul said, he “disguises himself as an angel of light” (2 Corinthians 11:14). His ideas can seem so beneficial and appealing, but the damage can be incalculable. This is why we need to know our enemy!

Today, be on guard against Satan’s subtle deception. He is at work in the world, constantly looking for ways to deceive you! But God has given you what you need to resist him (1 Corinthians 10:13). Fill your heart and mind with His Word! Stand on His promises. Be ready!