This is a heartening promise from God. Scripture is clear that we have a real enemy, who is just that, our enemy. Lying temptations that appeal to our sinful nature, doubts about God and His word, and attempts to stir up strife with others are just some of the ways Satan seeks to throw traps in our path. He is a dirty fighter, opposing us not just on our good days, but attacking even in the middle of hard circumstances like illness, grief, and loneliness.

Here’s the good word from God: resist him and he’ll eventually go away. How do you resist? By believing the truth of God’s word. By saying an emphatic “No!” to temptation and even getting help from friends if you think you’re about to fall. By fighting any evil thought he insinuates and seeking to replace it with something good. Ultimately in all of the above, to trust the power and grace of God.