This saying was made famous by comedian and actor Flip Wilson in the late 60s and 70s. The comic idea was that he didn’t want to do it but the devil made him. Some people today want to use that same excuse when they’re caught in sin. The truth is, the devil cannot make anyone do anything! Galatians 2:20 says, “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.” The same power that created the universe resides within us. As a result, Satan has no true power over believers in Christ. He can only temp us, he cannot MAKE us do his will. He didn’t take the fruit from the tree in the Garden and make Eve eat of it; no, he tempted her. “Your enemy the devil prowls around LIKE a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” (1 Peter 5:8). He tries to deceive us. Sometimes he will be allowed to test us as he did Job but God was in control. He tempted Jesus in the wilderness and we know how that came out. Satan has no control over us unless we give it to him.

So, what do we do when we’re tempted? We focus on God, “I know the LORD is always with me. I will not be shaken, for He is right beside me.” (Psalm 16:8). We keep our eyes on God and the Path ahead so as not to be distracted. We submit to God and resist the devil, (James 4:7). We use the weapons and strategies God has given us to resist. We stand, but not in our own power, we stand with the full armor of God on! (Ephesians 6:13), especially “the Sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God,” (Ephesians 6:17). We need to declare to the devil, “God only is my rock and my salvation: He is my defense; I shall not be moved!” (Psalm 62:6). We can pray as in the Lord’s Prayer, “Lord, lead us away from temptation and deliver us from evil.” (Matthew 6:13).

Might I suggest that we prepare a battle declaration prayer when temptation jumps out on us while on the Path of Life using these and other scriptures? Say, “Not today devil!”, and quote our declaration. Be aware of our surroundings and take charge with the power of the Holy Spirit in us.