Let's talk about Satan:
"Wherefore we would have come unto you, even I Paul, once and again; but Satan hindered us." -1Th 2:18
In the above passage, Satan is portrayed as an enemy of God's work. Paul says that his journey to the Thessalonians was blocked by Satan (maybe Paul saw Satan behind the lawless rioting in Thessalonica which may have prevented his return).
Similar to God, there are indications of Satan's work in the various names given to him. Each name expresses a quality of character, or a method of operation, or both. Like, as "Satan" he opposes, as "devil" he slanders and accuses, or as "tempter" he seeks to lure men to commit sin. We'll go into more detail about these in other Theology Thursdays as they come up
Of course, the Bible also reveals the nature of his work directly. But, generally speaking, Satan's objective is expressed in Isa 14:14, "I will make myself like the Most High."
What we need to remember is that although Satan may hinder us and prevent us from doing the work that we wish to do for the Kingdom of God, we shouldn't allow it to discourage us. Because God is ultimately in control,
"A man's heart devises his way: but the LORD directs his steps." -Pro 16:9.
God is even in control of what Satan is permitted to do as is infamously shown in the book of Job. So, even though God may permit Satan to hinder us or even worse, let us not forget that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28
What are your thoughts on Satan's attempt to hinder? Has Satan ever hindered you in you life or in your walk with God? He certainly has for me! We would love to hear your thoughts on this. Thanks and God Bless!
SOURCES:
Twelftree, G.H.. New Dictionary of Biblical Theology (p. 800). Inter-Varsity Press
Thiessen, Henry. Lectures in Systematic Theology (p. 210-211). Eerdmans Publishing Co