The Defeated Foe

​Something new came to our attention as we vacationed on Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire this year. It is common for some of the homeowners to anchor a swim platform a few hundred feet from their docks. It gives swimmers a destination and a place to rest or catch some sun. The problem is that the Lake ducks also use the platforms. We frequently saw several ducks preening and sunning themselves on these structures. 
 
This year we saw artificial, but very real looking owls and coyotes on the platforms to scare away the ducks. We all had a good laugh when we saw two ducks resting on either side of a coyote. Daily, these ducks took up their restful positions with the fake animal. They seemingly know that this predator has a bark much worse than its bite. As they bravely fly aboard the platform and lay down next to the nasty-looking deterrent, they seem to have no concerns.
 
Does this remind you of the defeated enemy we call Satan? "...He prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour." But Peter tells us to "Resist him and stand firm in the faith." (1 Peter 5:8, 9) In addition, James 4:7 says, "Resist the devil, and he will flee." Those of us who know our power and authority in Christ will not succumb to the devil's attempts to take us down. We know the one who defeated him completely at the Cross. There is no need to be concerned about his attempt to place fear in us. In fact, like the ducks at Lake Winnipesaukee, we can lay down next to him and rest.
 
That being said, let us remember that we can give the demonic realm permission to attack us when we behave or speak in agreement with what they say. There are times when we unwittingly make a vow or judgment, or hold someone in unforgiveness, or take on self-righteousness or a haughty spirit that opens us up to a battle with the demonic. These behaviors that send a message that agrees with the kingdom of darkness can be easily rendered null and void by rebuking any offense, declaring our repentance, and asking the Holy Spirit to fill us where sins have been emptied out.
 
Whenever we experience the attack of the enemy let us remember the ducks sleeping at the feet of the ineffective coyote. We are destined to be overcomers. We should have no fear. Our confidence is in the Lord who made us with power and authority to take charge of the environment around us. Our inheritance from the Lord includes victory over our enemies.