“Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted.” Galatians 6:1

We cannot watch out for ourselves too much. Not self preoccupation. Not self centeredness. Not looking to project ourselves. But, realizing the power of the residue of the flesh that still resides in our bodies, we have to protect ourselves.

With a bit more self reflection, and with the revealing help of the Holy Spirit, we can take stock of ourselves more often. The point of this taking stock is to recognize where we may be susceptible to the lies of Satan.

Past patterns of are one place to look. Satan knows that how we lived before Jesus is a good place to start. Destructive habits is another place for him to wage his war against God through us.

He is the father of lies. “You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father's desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies. John 8:44

He has been a student of human behavior, and, especially your behavior. He is always watching for ways to seduce us. Enticements, crude temptations, even fear. Sometimes he can be an angel of light and appear as righteousness. “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.” 2 Corinthians 11:14-15

Sometimes he attempts to strike fear. “Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.”1 Peter 5:8

Peter gives us the recipe for success at that times of his testing. “Be sober-minded; be watchful……Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.” 1 Peter 5:8, 9