“…so that Satan might not outwit us, for we are not ignorant of his devices.”
[2 Corinthians 2:11]

The above scripture is well known among most Christians, yet its meaning escapes many within the body of Christ. It has been my observation that in the new millennium, Satan and his minions are indeed outwitting us as most Christians appear to be clueless about Satan’s schemes, tricks, and devices. Satan’s schemes are designed to lead us into sin and keep us mired there. Moreover, in utilizing his tricks, his intentions are to render us ineffective in our own faith walk as well as in leading others to Christ.

In this era of special effects and technological advances, Christians may expect Satan’s existence or appearance to be a dramatic one, similar to what they have seen in Hollywood films. Some incorrectly perceive Satan or the devil to be in human form wearing a red suit, having horns atop his head, and holding a pitchfork. Others imagine Satan as a yellow-eyed, winged creature with talons as portrayed in end-time prophecy novels. But instead of appearing in a vivid, conspicuous way, the devil manifests inconspicuously and subtly through evil forces and spiritual wickedness, especially in high places.

This book describes twenty-one of Satan’s schemes, tricks, and devices; however, this list is not, by any means, all-inclusive. The schemes that are listed are ones I identified following months of intense Bible study. Before we explore these schemes, however, a thorough understanding of Satan and his characteristics is required first.