Paul warned the church in 2 Corinthians 2:11 to forgive quickly, lest Satan take advantage of them, because believers are not ignorant of his devices. Throughout Scripture, the enemy’s strategies fall into two broad categories, and knowing which one you are facing changes how you respond.

Two Doors the Enemy Uses

External opposition comes from people, circumstances, and pressure from outside. Internal sabotage comes from within, through temptation, pride, fear, and discouragement we allow to take root in our own hearts. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us our struggle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces working through both avenues.

When the Attack Comes From Outside

Nehemiah faced threats of violence, deceptive invitations, slander, and even an infiltrator sent to trick him into sin while he rebuilt Jerusalem’s walls. He refused every scheme by staying focused and praying continually, saying plainly, I am doing a great work and cannot come down. Paul endured hindered plans and persecution, yet kept preaching, trusting God’s grace was sufficient. Jesus faced direct temptation in the wilderness and answered every lie with the truth of Scripture.

When the Attack Comes From Within

Not every attack is external. David’s pride led him to number Israel against God’s instruction. Judas allowed unchecked greed and disappointment to fester until he betrayed the Lord he once followed. Peter’s overconfidence gave way to fear, and he denied knowing Jesus three times before the rooster crowed. The difference between Judas and Peter was not that one failed and the other did not. Both failed. The difference was what happened after. Peter wept, repented, and was restored, while Judas let despair finish what pride had started.

First Peter 5 tells us our adversary prowls around, but it also tells us to resist him, standing firm in faith. Whether the pressure you feel today is coming from outside your circumstances or from inside your own heart, you are not without the power to stand.

-Terrence Burton