How the Enemy Steals, Kills, and Destroys

In John 10:10a, Jesus warns, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy.” This statement reveals the true nature of the enemy—Satan. His primary agenda is to spoil the soul of man, robbing him of the love, peace, and joy that God intended for him. The enemy is not merely interested in material possessions but in the very essence of life—the soul. Through strife, confusion, and suffering, he aims to separate man from God, leading to destruction.

The Enemy’s Strategy: Strife and Confusion

One of the most effective ways the enemy destroys souls is through strife and confusion. When there is disorder, man loses his peace, which ultimately affects every aspect of life. The Bible teaches that “For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work” (James 3:16). Through division and chaos, the enemy weakens individuals, families, and even nations.

Consider the following manifestations of his strategy:

1. Broken Families: Marriages crumble due to misunderstandings, betrayals, and unresolved conflicts, leading to divorces that leave children wounded and families devastated.
2. Violence and Crime: Hatred breeds robbery, murder, and violence, where people take from others, spreading fear and suffering.
3. Wars and Rumors of Wars: Nations rise against each other, leading to destruction, displacement, and countless deaths.
4. Economic Crises: Unemployment, lack of basic needs, and inflation lead to stress, frustration, and hopelessness.
5. Political Instability: When leaders are corrupt or self-seeking, the people suffer, and entire societies collapse into turmoil.

The Drying Up of Life: Joel 1:12

The Bible describes the devastating effects of losing peace and joy in Joel 1:12:
“The vine is dried up, and the fig tree languisheth; the pomegranate tree, the palm tree also, and the apple tree, even all the trees of the field, are withered: because joy is withered away from the sons of men.”

This verse shows that when joy and peace are taken, everything else begins to dry up. Just as trees depend on water to flourish, man depends on the peace and joy of God to thrive. Without them, life becomes barren. Financial struggles, failed relationships, depression, and hopelessness are evidence of how life dries up when joy is stolen.

The Effects on Health and Society

The lack of peace doesn’t only affect the soul but also manifests physically. Anxiety, stress, and depression contribute to illnesses such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and mental disorders. Politically, when a nation is in turmoil, people live in fear, and progress is hindered. The enemy ensures that nations remain in crisis so that people never experience the fullness of life that God intended.

The Answer: The Love, Peace, and Joy of the Lord

Despite the enemy’s agenda, there is hope. Jesus came to “give life, and life more abundantly” (John 10:10b). The true solution to the enemy’s attacks is the love, peace, and joy of the Lord. When man is filled with God’s presence, no external force can steal his joy. Philippians 4:7 assures us that “the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

To overcome the enemy’s tactics, we must:

• Remain in Christ through prayer, the Word, and fellowship.
• Guard our hearts against bitterness, strife, and fear.
• Pursue peace in our homes, workplaces, and communities.
• Trust God for provision and restoration, even in difficult times.

Conclusion

The enemy seeks to steal, kill, and destroy, using strife, confusion, and suffering to rob man of peace and joy. When joy is lost, life dries up, affecting families, economies, and even health. However, God’s love, peace, and joy are the true sources of abundant life. By staying rooted in Christ, we can overcome the enemy’s schemes and live in the fullness of God’s promises.