“The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.”

John‬ ‭10:10‬

The devil is our enemy. His only intention is to destroy mankind. He is busier with children of God, to lure them away from the presence of God. He has no power over God’s children.

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.

1 peter 5:8,9

Just like back in the day, in the garden of Eden, he gains access to steal, kill and eventually destroy a child of God. The devil attacks mostly those who seek to grow in the Lord because they are the ones who impact his kingdom.

7 stages of the devil's deception which influence a weak believer to fall

Here's some creativity, by God's grace, to understand the stages that lead to a Christian's backsliding.

1. DISTRACTION: when you lose your attention
2. ATTRACTION: when you gain an evil fixation
3. SUBTRACTION: when you lose Godly intention
4. CONTRACTION: when you go into isolation
5. ABSTRACTION: when you start finding yourself in confusion
6. RETRACTION: when you begin moving further away from the presence of God
7. EXTRACTION: when you are completely removed from the narrow way (death & destruction)

These stages can be applied in any situation in your spiritual walk. Paul says we are not ignorant of the devil's devices. Neither should we be ignorant.

 Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices.

2 Corinthians 2:11

The closer we get to God, the more aware and wise we get concerning the devil's evil strategies against the children of God and mankind.

Watch and Pray, the time is near
Hold onto Jesus, never fear
When troubles come, be of good cheer
The Father will lead you to victory, my dear