The Power of the Air

“You were dead in your offenses and sins … you previously walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience.”—Ephesians 2:1–2 NASB

Our perspective changes when we realize that the devil is “the prince of the power of the air.” This means he rules a real kingdom and his evil forces exercise power and influence.

His domain is “the air.” He works in the atmosphere. His ideas flow in conversations. He influences the images projected in the media. He uses television, the internet, cell phones, and social media.

As Paul wrote, the devil’s spirit is “working in the sons of disobedience.” People can find themselves under this influence without even knowing it. When they are disobedient, they can become vulnerable, available for his manipulation, shaping how they think and what they believe.

We must be careful about what we allow into our minds through what we watch, what we listen to, and what we think about.

Satan’s kingdom has limits, and he can be defeated. But we must not be “ignorant of his schemes” (2 Corinthians 2:11). We must understand his strategies and how he attacks us. We need to fill our minds with God’s Word and be people of prayer. We must be sensitive to the leading of the Spirit, walk in the Spirit, and be careful of what we see and to whom we listen.

Ask God to help you stay alert to this prince. Be filled with the Spirit. Pray for discernment. Arm yourself with the Sword of the Spirit, God’s Word. Exercise the authority He has given you.

Reflection Question: How can you ensure that you aren’t fooled by the schemes of the evil one?