Satan and his Demons are Real!

It seems that interest in Satan and the demonic ripples through history the way concentric circles ripple from a stone thrown into a pond. For decades we hear nothing about Satan; it's almost as if he did not exist. Then, a movie, a book, a lecturer or someone or something else bursts on the scene and there is a fascination with the devil that invariably spawns copycat movies, books and lectures. I sometimes wonder whether Satan is happier with the anonymity, so he can secretly go about his deceitful work, or with the notoriety, so he can bask in the sinful pride which first brought upon his downfall.
Generally speaking, Christians make one of two mistakes about Satan. Sometimes we treat him as a weakling, a non-existent enemy or a silly but innocuous little devil in a red suit. I feel quite certain Satan is content with these misconceptions; it makes his work so much easier. On the other hand, sometimes we become so taken back with Satan, so intrigued by the demonic, that we can think of nothing else. We become Satan-hunters rather than Spirit-followers. When we do, our focus on a lost world and our responsibility to glorify God is skewed and Satan's work is made so much easier.
Once asked what was important to keep in mind about Satan, I replied, His past is shady,his present is sneaky, and his future is shaky. In dealing with the Devil we must have a clear understanding of who he is, what he wants, and what is in his future. We need to be aware of the devil's devices so that we can defeat him in battle. And most of all, Christians need a strategy for dealing with the devil and to know the rules of engagement.
During the 21st century we are witnessing the dumbing down of the church. That is, Christians are becoming less and less able to withstand the fiery darts of the wicked one. We need to pray more than ever right now. The battle is real. We need to prepare for the battle. Present yourself to the Commander-in-Chief. And be encouraged; the war is real, but the outcome is certain.