Have you ever thought about the differences between God and Satan? Have you ever sat down and really contemplated the contrasts between their attributes, qualities, abilities, conduct, actions, methods, principles, and characters?

If you have never done so, I encourage you to take a few minutes and start a list. Then prayerfully note the differences—it is quite stark. As you consider this list, have you ever seen some attributes misapplied—some elements on Satan’s list being applied to God and vice versa?

Below is my own partial list of some of the differences between God and Satan; take a moment and read each element, contemplate the meaning, consider the implications for your life, and evaluate where and how you have seen this contrast at work in your experiences. Then consider what is happening in the world today and inquire: Who is at work, whose kingdom is advancing, with a particular activity, policy, or program? And when you see organizations, programs, activities, institutions, and even friends insist on using the methods of Satan to advance their causes, determine to divest yourself from them. Commit yourself to applying to your life only the attributes, principles, and methods of our Creator God—for there is no middle ground.

Understanding the divergent methods, principles, and attributes of God and Satan can be an effective tool in helping the mature in Christ discern between what is good and what is evil in the world today. I encourage you to make your own list and actively seek to apply only God’s methods to your life each day, to support those causes that live out God’s methods, and to divest yourself from those systems that actively employ the methods of Satan.