Faithful FatherhoodSample

Knowing Your Enemy: A Devotional for Men

In military intelligence, the acronym EMPCOA stands for “Enemy’s Most Probable Course of Action.” It’s a method to anticipate the enemy’s strategy and outsmart him before falling prey to his tactics. This principle applies not just on the battlefield but also in our spiritual lives. As men of God, we face a cunning and relentless enemy. Knowing his strategy is vital to standing firm in faith.

Understanding the Enemy

Ephesians 6:12 reminds us, “Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this darkness, against evil spiritual forces in the heavens.” Satan is not only real but also highly intelligent. Genesis 3:1 describes him as “craftier than any other wild animal.” His goal is clear: to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10). He prowls like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8).

The Enemy’s Primary Technique

Satan’s most effective weapon is twisting words—particularly the Word of God. In the Garden of Eden, he deceived Adam and Eve by distorting God’s instructions. When Jesus fasted in the wilderness, Satan again twisted Scripture to tempt Him. Today, the enemy uses the same strategy, whispering lies like, “God’s grace will cover this—just ask for forgiveness later.” Do not be passive when the enemy attacks.

The danger of these lies in their subtlety. They can lead us to compromise, exploit God’s grace, and stray from His truth. But as men of God, we can resist these schemes by knowing and standing on His Word.

Why Adam Fell and Jesus Triumphed

Adam fell because he was passive. He failed to stand on God’s Word and allowed Eve to be deceived. In contrast, Jesus triumphed because He actively resisted the enemy by quoting Scripture. When tempted, He responded with the truth of God’s Word, and the devil fled. James 4:7 affirms this principle: “Submit to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”

Equipping Ourselves for Battle

Men, if we are to resist the enemy, we must:

1. Know God’s Word: How can we recognize Satan’s lies if we don’t know the truth? Commit to reading and studying Scripture daily.

2. Discern God’s Voice: John 10:4 says, “We are God’s sheep, and we should recognize His voice.” This recognition comes from spending time with Him in prayer and meditation, learning to distinguish His truth from the enemy’s deception.

3. Stand Firm: Like Jesus, we must actively resist temptation by standing on God’s promises. When we submit to God, the enemy has no choice but to flee.

4. Be Watchful: The enemy’s tactics are constant and insidious. Stay alert and vigilant, guarding your heart and mind against his schemes.

A Call to Action

Brothers, we are in a spiritual battle. To protect ourselves, our families, and our faith, we must know our enemy and be grounded in God’s Word. Spend time daily in Scripture and prayer, equipping yourself with the truth that overcomes the enemy’s lies. As we grow in intimacy with God, we will recognize His voice and walk confidently in His victory.

Let’s stand together, armed with His Word, and resist the schemes of the enemy. Remember, the battle belongs to the Lord, and through Him, we are more than conquerors.