In today’s world, discussing the influence of Satan might seem unconventional, especially in academic settings. However, ignoring this influence would be a disservice, particularly to younger generations navigating an increasingly complex moral landscape. While societal norms often prioritize political correctness, it’s crucial to address the very real and pervasive influence of evil. As Elizabeth Barrett Browning noted, “the devil is most devilish when respectable,” and Shakespeare cautioned against trusting the “tameness of a wolf.” We must recognize that Satan’s influence is not a myth but a tangible force in our lives.
The Peril of Engaging with Evil
It’s unwise to become overly curious or fascinated by Satan and his workings. Just as playing with fire risks getting burned, engaging with evil, even intellectually, is dangerous. As Joseph F. Smith wisely stated, “The knowledge of sin tempteth to its commission.” The safest path is to maintain a clear distance from Satan and all forms of wickedness, including devil worship, sorcery, witchcraft, and any practices associated with demonism. These are not harmless curiosities but dangerous paths that lead away from serving the Lord.
However, understanding evil is not the same as engaging with it. Brigham Young emphasized the importance of studying evil and its consequences to better understand the opposition to God’s work. Alma clearly defined the dichotomy: “whatsoever is good cometh from God, and whatsoever is evil cometh from the devil.” Recognizing Satan as the source of evil is essential to discerning his influence and strengthening our resolve to Serve The Lord.
Recognizing Satan’s Tactics: A Necessary Awareness
Paul’s warning, “lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices,” is particularly relevant today. Understanding Satan’s tactics is crucial, especially for those new to the world’s complexities. This knowledge helps us remain free from his deceptions and enticements as we strive to serve the Lord.
Elder Marion G. Romney highlighted a critical truth: “Now there are those among us who are trying to serve the Lord without offending the devil.” This, however, is an impossible contradiction. President Romney further questioned whether peace can be achieved by compromising with the world rather than fully embracing the Gospel of Jesus Christ. There is no middle ground when it comes to serving the Lord.
Yogi Berra’s humorous saying, “If you come to a fork in the road, take it,” doesn’t apply to our spiritual journey. Jesus Christ Himself stated unequivocally, “No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” This scripture emphasizes the necessity of choice. We cannot effectively serve the Lord while simultaneously pursuing selfish interests or accommodating worldly temptations. The influence of God inspires us to follow Him, while Satan’s power tempts us to reject God’s commandments.
James E. Faust
President Romney further emphasized the all-or-nothing nature of our choices, stating that we are inevitably led by either God or Satan. Our agency allows us to choose, but choose we must. There is no serving both. This stark reality underscores the importance of consciously deciding to serve the Lord and actively rejecting the subtle and overt influences of Satan.
Increased Opposition as Righteousness Grows
As the kingdom of God progresses, we can expect increased efforts from Satan. Opposition will become more sophisticated, cunning, and blatant. This escalating opposition is, in itself, evidence of the truthfulness of God’s work. We must cultivate greater spirituality to discern and resist these evolving forms of evil as we continue to serve the Lord.
Modern Societal Issues: Battlegrounds for Our Souls
Several contemporary issues highlight the ongoing conflict between serving the Lord and succumbing to Satan’s influence. Abortion, for example, has become socially acceptable, even while it contradicts fundamental moral principles. Mother Teresa’s powerful message linking abortion to violence and societal selfishness underscores its grave spiritual implications. Her courageous stance, though perhaps politically inconvenient, reflects a profound commitment to life and a clear understanding of the sanctity of each child. Serving the Lord means defending the defenseless and upholding the sanctity of life.
Similarly, the concept of “sustainable growth,” often used to justify population control, challenges the divine mandate to “be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth.” While seemingly pragmatic, this concept can mask a lack of faith in God’s promises and the earth’s capacity. Scripture assures us, “the earth is full, and there is enough and to spare.” Serving the Lord involves trusting in His provisions and embracing His plan for humanity.
The Church’s stance on marriage and family also faces constant opposition. The definition of marriage as a union between a man and a woman, ordained of God, is challenged by societal trends promoting alternative lifestyles. While some theories suggest homosexuality is inherited, this notion lacks conclusive scientific evidence and contradicts the plan of salvation. Serving the Lord requires upholding the sanctity of marriage and family as divinely ordained institutions, recognizing that deviations from this pattern ultimately undermine the fabric of society and are pleasing to Satan.
Even the breakdown of families, regardless of fault, brings delight to Satan, especially when children are involved. Neglect of children, both physical and spiritual, creates fertile ground for societal ills. Serving the Lord includes nurturing families, protecting children, and creating environments of love and support.
Subtle Tactics: The Gradual Descent
Satan’s methods are not always dramatic. Nephi described how Satan “pacifieth, and lull[eth] them away into carnal security,” whispering “All is well in Zion,” while subtly leading souls astray. C.S. Lewis, in The Screwtape Letters, illustrates this gradual descent, where “small sins,” seemingly insignificant, cumulatively lead us away from the light. This “gentle slope” to hell, without dramatic turns or clear signposts, is a dangerous path to avoid as we strive to serve the Lord.
These “small sins” can include challenges to moral laws concerning gambling, alcohol, and drug consumption. Arguments for broad-mindedness, dismissing moral legislation as imposing religious beliefs, ignore the significant societal costs of these vices. Criminal laws, in fact, often have a moral foundation, reflecting societal values and the need for order. Serving the Lord involves upholding moral standards, even when unpopular, for the well-being of society and individuals.
Overcoming Subtle Offenses: Active Faith and Temple Worship
Even seemingly mild actions, like possessing a temple recommend but not using it, can hinder our spiritual progress. While simply having a recommend may not offend Satan, neglecting temple worship certainly deprives us of spiritual protection and blessings. Satan is indeed offended when we actively engage in temple worship, recognizing its power. Obstacles often arise when we plan to attend the temple, a testament to Satan’s efforts to deter us from this sacred service to the Lord. President Brigham Young noted that temple building often triggers opposition, but emphasized the importance of persevering despite it. President Howard W. Hunter encouraged us to see the temple as the “great symbol” of our membership and commitment to serving the Lord.
Furthermore, limiting our faith proclamation to humanitarian work or beautiful buildings, while commendable, may not truly challenge Satan. While these are positive aspects of our faith, they might not directly confront the powers of darkness. However, boldly testifying of Joseph Smith as a prophet, the Book of Mormon as a witness of Christ, and the Restoration of the gospel – these declarations truly offend Satan. Serving the Lord fully means sharing the core truths of the restored gospel with conviction and courage.
The Power of the Atonement and Resisting Deception
Declaring the perfect life of the Savior and His Atonement is a powerful act against Satan. The Atonement is the ultimate gift, enabling us to break free from Satan’s grasp through repentance. Conversely, claiming “all roads lead to heaven” or that church affiliation is inconsequential plays directly into Satan’s hands. This false philosophy, though appealing, contradicts scripture. The path to God is “strait and narrow,” not broad and accommodating of all beliefs. Elder Delbert L. Stapley warned against the devil’s delight in such false notions that blind people to revealed truth. Serving the Lord involves adhering to the specific path He has laid out, not assuming any path will suffice.
We need not fear Satan’s power. He has no power over us unless we allow it. James advised, “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” Nephi affirmed that Satan has “no power over the hearts” of the righteous. The excuse “The devil made me do it” is a fallacy. Satan can tempt and deceive, but he cannot force us to act against our will.
The Prophet Joseph Smith taught that beings with bodies have power over those without. “The devil has no power over us only as we permit him. The moment we revolt at anything which comes from God, the devil takes power.” Satan and his angels are not omnipotent; they operate within bounds and limits.
Shields Against Satan: Discernment, Gospel Living, and Spiritual Practices
Despite Satan’s successes in deceiving many, we have ample protection. The gift of the Holy Ghost provides discernment, guiding those who strive to obey God’s commandments and follow living prophets. Personal revelation, promised to those with “eyes are single to the glory of God,” fills us with light, leaving no room for darkness. Serving the Lord with a pure heart invites this divine guidance and protection.
Satan’s efforts are thwarted when we come unto Christ through gospel covenants and ordinances. Humble followers of Christ need not be deceived. Satan’s influence brings shame and misery, while the Spirit of God sustains, uplifts, and blesses.
Fasting and prayer are powerful tools for gaining spiritual strength to resist temptation. The Savior’s example of fasting and prayer in the wilderness demonstrates the power of spiritual preparation in overcoming evil. Serving the Lord often requires sacrifice and dedicated effort, but the spiritual rewards are immeasurable.
Work itself is also a deterrent to evil. Idleness creates vulnerability to temptation, while purposeful work aligns us with righteous principles. As Herndon noted, “Satan selects his disciples when they are idle; Jesus selected his when they were busy at their work.” Serving the Lord includes diligent effort and purposeful living.
The Everlasting Gospel: Our Saving Force
Ultimately, the everlasting gospel of Jesus Christ, with its principles, covenants, and ordinances, is our saving force against the increasing evils in the world. The priesthood power we hold is a trust to roll back Satan’s influence and bless all of God’s children. Let us dedicate our lives to serving the Lord, without fearing to offend the devil. May righteousness spread, staying the destroyer’s hand, and may God grant solace, comfort, and peace to all as we strive to serve Him. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
