_Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices_ *(2 Corinthians 2:11)*
In an crucial moment when Jesus spoke about His impending death, Peter, one of the foremost disciples, took Jesus aside, objected and rebuked Him, saying, *"...Be it far from thee, Lord: this shall be unto thee"* (Mathew 16:22). The Lord's response was swift and clear. He turned to Peter and said, *"...Get thee behind me, Satan..."* (Mathew 16:23).
The Lord Jesus recognized that it was Satan speaking through Peter. But here's something I'd like you to notice. In addressing Peter, Jesus didn't look into the air as though the devil was somewhere around speaking through Peter. He knew where the devil was; he was right in Peter.
Now, here's where a lot of people miss it. They say, *"Can you imagine; Peter was once demon-possessed"* no! Peter was not demon-possessed, but the words he spoke were influenced by Satan. When people accept Satan's words, they receive of him to themselves. This doesn't imply that they're now demon-possessed.
Demon possession occurs when an individual is completely overtaken by that spirit, in which case he can't free himself, as he's compelled to do only what that evil spirit dictates.
Another example similar to Peter's case is seen where Satan moved David to number Israel, as recorded in the old Testament (Chronicles 21, 2 Samuel 24). David, a righteous man, was unaware that he had been swayed by Satan's prompting. Similarly, Peter too was unaware that Satan was operating through him.
O, how important it is to learn to follow the Holy Spirit in the Word, by the Word, and through the Word! It's part of the reasons we pray and intercede for people, especially leaders, that they'll always have the will, desires and boldness to do what is right, be led by the Holy Spirit, and never be in conflict with the Scriptures.
Therefore, in line with the Scriptures, always make intercession and giving of thanks for all men, for kings, and for all that are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty (1 Timothy 2:1-2).
PRAYER
_Dear Father, I remain steadfast in the truth, aware of the tactics, wiles, manipulations, deceits, trickery and deceptions employed by the devil. I'm sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit in my life, who causes me to walk in God's perfect will and in the glory of God. Amen._
FURTHER STUDY:
*1 Peter 5:8-9* Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: *9* Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.
*James 4:7* Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
*1 Chronicles 21:1-2* And Satan stood up against Israel, and provoked David to number Israel. *2* And David said to Joab and to the rulers of the people, Go, number Israel from Beersheba even to Dan; and bring the number of them to me, that I may know it.
*1 Year Bible Reading Plan :* Galatians 1:1-24 & Ecclesiastes 9-12
*2 Year Bible Reading Plan :* Luke 22:63-71 & 2 Samuel 3-4
