September 15

Ecclesiastes 7:1-9:10
Psalm 107:33-38
Proverbs 22:20-21
2 Corinthians 1:23-3:3

Blasphemous Thoughts
For we are not ignorant of [Satan’s] schemes.
—2 Corinthians 2:11

The form of satanic attack that is probably the most difficult of all to endure is having blasphemous thoughts. Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones said on this: “The devil has often plagued some of the noblest saints with blasphemous thoughts—blasphemous thoughts about God, blasphemous thoughts about the Lord Jesus Christ, and blasphemous thoughts about the Holy Spirit.”

How horrible and terrifying such thoughts can be. Sometimes the Devil hurls the most awful words and phrases into the mind; but again, it is important to see that these do not arise from within the heart of the believer—they come from the Devil, who is trying to confuse and demoralize you.

How grateful we should be to the saints down the ages who have recorded these satanic attacks, for otherwise we would be tempted when experiencing them to believe that they have never happened to anyone else. Many masters of the spiritual life have described these satanic attacks in great detail—John Bunyan and Martin Luther being the two best examples.

But how do we deal with these “flaming arrows” of Satan? What action must we take to repel these devilish attacks? There is only one answer—we must take and use the shield of faith. Faith alone enables us to meet and overcome this particular type of attack. What we must not do is expose our chests, expecting the breastplate of righteousness to deal with this problem. Each piece of the equipment is designed to deal with a particular attack. And the answer here is—faith.

Prayer
Heavenly Father, I understand the problem—now show me how to apply the answer. The answer, I see, is faith. But how does it work? How can I apply it? Teach me more. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Further Study
2Co 10:1-5; Mt 22:37-38; Eph 1:22-23; James 4:7-8
In what ways does Satan attack the mind?
What is the scriptural antidote?

Every Day with Jesus Daily Bible – September 15