To clarify, in no way does Satan have “the same power” as God. At best, it is a cheap counterfeit and only has the degree of power temporarily allowed by God. The best defense against being deceived by Satan’s use of spirit power is a thorough understanding of Scripture related to the specific issue in question.
The shield of our faith in the Word and power of God and Christ protects us from the fiery darts of the varying forms of the deception Satan.
Ephesians 6:16: Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.
It is ultimately the teaching of the Word of God that helps us recognize and identify whether a teaching or miracle is from God or from the devil.
2 Timothy 3:16: All scripture is given by God. And all scripture is useful for teaching and for showing people what is wrong in their lives. It is useful for correcting faults and teaching the right way to live. Using the scriptures, those who serve God will have everything they need to do every good work.
Satan stands for deceit, in opposition to the Word and Truth of God. We are told in John 8 that Satan is the “father of lies,” with the intent of continuing the destructive influence of sin.
John 8:44: You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.
The Word of God shows us that the schemes of Satan involve deceit.
2 Corinthians 11:14-15: And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. So it is no surprise if his servants, also, disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their deeds. Satan and his angels want to APPEAR as an angel of light for the purpose of deception and misleading people from truth to error.
The Word of God is our source of truth.
Proverbs 30:5: Every word of God is pure (tried or tested; that is, absolutely genuine); He is a shield to those who put their trust in Him.
John 17:17: (The testimony of Jesus, in prayer to the Father) Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.
The Word of God is reliable. Hebrews 10:23: Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; for he is faithful that promised. 2 Corinthians 1:20: For all the promises of God are yea, and in Him amen, unto the glory of God by us.
The Word of God shines forth the light of truth and the light of Godly direction. Psalm 119:105: Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.
Additional Resources:
Christian Questions Podcast
Episode #1222: “How is Satan Trying to Devour Me?”
How the Devil attempts to sabotage my Christian life
Preview Video
CQ Rewind Show Notes
Episode #1305: “How Do Satanic Demons Influence Our World?”
Establishing the origin, power and methods of dark spiritual beings
Preview Video
CQ Rewind Show Notes
Download free PDF: “God’s Grand Plan of the Ages”
