The Fight

Today I read a chapter in the Book of Mormon and then read about Fortifying Ourselves against Evil Influences in Spencer W. Kimball’s Volume of Teaching of the Presidents of the Church. A quote that I wanted to share about the fight against Satan is that it “is not a little skirmish with a half-willed antagonist, but a battle royal with an enemy so powerful, entrenched, and organized that we are likely to be vanquished if we are not strong, well-trained, and watchful.” That made me think. What are you doing to fortify yourself? It is not enough to go along your way not thinking about the fight. We must be proactive.
Isn’t it so interesting that it is easier for people to believe in the Devil rather than God. I think this is because so many of us have felt his evil influence to some degree. He will force wickedness on anyone that doesn’t have their guard up. God is different. He doesn’t force. He allows us to come to him and if we are willing he will let us feel of His light.
Peter cautioned us: “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour” (1 Peter 5:8). Devour is such an interesting word choice. If you see someone under Satan’s influence their spirit is devoured. It is easy to see this with drugs, alcohol or pornography, but what about self-pity. Self-pity is not of God. I would bet most people reading this don’t have a problem with the first three addictions, but self-pity sneaks in like the snake himself. If Satan can get mothers to pity themselves and begin to be selfish, then he can eventually claim the entire family. I know there are times that I fall into this. This is not the Spirit of God. If you are living with the spirit you have hope, peace, and optimism. Pay attention to your inner feelings. Are they of God? If they are not then you need to make the changes necessary. If your feelings are not of God then you must strengthen your defenses and fight back.