Satan’s Illusions vs. God’s Reality

Sometimes when we look at things, we don’t see what is really there. On first glance at an optical illusion, we only see a portion of the image because they are created with the intention of tricking the eye.  The image we perceive differs from reality.  After looking more closely we are able to see the hidden image. If you look closely at the optical illusion above, you can see the word “JESUS”. Once you see “JESUS”, it becomes difficult to look at the illusion and not see it for what it is.

In Genesis 3:1, the serpent uses trickery to lead Eve down the path of disobedience.  He says to Eve, “Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree in the garden?'”  Eve corrected the serpent and explained that God said they could eat from any tree except the tree of knowledge of good and evil or they would die.  She remembered exactly what God had commanded, but the serpent did not give up.  In verse four he says, “You will not surely die.  For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.”   The serpent was persistent and cunning and made Eve doubt what she knew.  He purposely deceived her by changing her perception of what God’s instruction.

It’s important for us to be very familiar with scripture, so that we can recognize Satan’s trickery.  He will twist scripture in our minds so that we do not recognize the wrong in what we do.  He will use pride to convince us that what we are doing is acceptable.  He will use our insecurities, loneliness, fear, and frustrations to change our perception of God’s word and our situation if we do not have a firm foundation of scripture.

Satan’s illusion: “It’s impossible.”  God’s Word says, “What is impossible with men is possible with God.” Luke 18:27

Satan’s illusion: “No one cares.”  God’s Word says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”  John 3:16

Satan illusion:   “I can’t do it.”  God’s Word says, “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.”  Philippians 4:16

Satan’s illusion:  “I’m afraid.”  God’s Word says, “For God did not give us a spirit of fear, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.” 2 Timothy 1:7

Satan’s illusion:  “I’m worried.”  God’s Word says, “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:7

Satan’s illusion: “I feel alone.”  God’s Word says, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” Hebrews 13:5

Satan’s illusion: “I won’t be forgiven.”  God’s Word says, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9

Remember that things are not always what they seem.  Satan is constantly scheming to change our perception of our circumstances.  He will persistently try to discourage us or lead us into disobedience. So carefully guard your heart against these illusions, and examine God’s word for His reality for your life.

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