“When he tells a lie, he speaks from his own nature, because he is a liar and the father of lies.” —John 8:44
Deception was—and still is—crucial to Satan’s strategy.
Sometimes, as was the case with Eve, Satan deceives us directly. Sometimes, however, he uses other people as instruments of deception. Paul warns in Ephesians 5:6, “Let no one deceive you with empty arguments.” Repeatedly he challenges God’s people to speak truth to one another.
According to the Scripture, we can even be deceived by spiritual leaders—those who have been entrusted with the responsibility of shepherding God’s flock and communicating the truth to His people.
Regardless of the immediate source, anytime we receive input that is not consistent with the Word of God, we can be sure Satan is trying to deceive and destroy us. What we read or hear may sound right, may feel right, may seem right—but if it is contrary to the Word of God, it isn’t right.
Make it Personal
Ask God to help you evaluate what you hear today in light of the truth of His Word.