By Pastor Dr. Aggrey Soyekwo
2 Corinthians 2:10-11 "Anyone you forgive, I also forgive. And what I have forgiven—if there was anything to forgive—I have forgiven in the sight of Christ for your sake, in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes." - NIV
Paul was guiding on how to help one caught in an offense, and the need to forgive so that they are not overwhelmed by sorrow. This would open a way for Satan who would take advantage and succeed in his plans against the believers.
Such is the way of the devil. He is a schemer. Jesus defeated him in a decisive once and forever victory on the cross and at His resurrection. He disarmed Satan of the power he had attained by tricking man in the garden of eden. At His ascension, Jesus boldly declared that all power in heaven and earth had been given to Him. He in turn gave back to man what was his from the begining. Now we are victorious over the devil through Christ. Hallelujah!
But why does this still elude us as we see alot of manifestation of satan’s successful manipulations? Because of his scheming which outwits even the believer in battle. Therefore, Paul’s counsel is very important, that we become aware of these schemes of Satan so that we are not defeated in a battle already won by Jesus for us. We shall explore more of these for our own victorious living in Christ.
Ephesians 6:10-11 "Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes."
Shalom children of God.