C.S. Lewis wrote: “There are two equal and opposite errors into which our race can fall about the devils. One is to disbelieve in their existence. The other is to believe, and to feel an excessive and unhealthy interest in them.” In an age that mocks anything spiritual, it would be easy to fall into that first error and completely ignore the fact that there is an enemy that “walks about as a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour.” (1 Peter 5:8)

There have been times when, as a man, as a husband, father, and pastor, I have discerned Satan’s assault, and on a few occasions, it was as if I could feel his foul breath on my neck. It’s comforting to know that he may only come against us as God wills it for our good and his glory. It’s also reassuring to realize we do not have to be ignorant of his evil schemes. (2 Corinthians 2:11)

There are a number of doors that our adversary uses to gain access into our lives. We need to know what they are so that we can keep them securely bolted.

1. The Door of Self-Will

One sure way to allow Satan to gain an entrance into our lives is through deliberate disobedience to God. If the Holy Spirit reveals an area of disobedience in your life and you ignore his conviction, you’ve opened a door for Satan. This is what spelled doom for King Saul. Having directly rejected God’s clear command, Saul was rebuked by the prophet Samuel who said, “Rebellion is as sinful as witchcraft, and stubbornness as bad as worshiping idols.” 1 Samuel 15:23 It’s no different than bowing down to an idol since you are putting something, whatever it may be, before the Lord.

2. The Door of Anger and Unforgiveness

These two things often go together. Our anger keeps us from forgiving the person that hurt us. Yet, we are exhorted in Scripture not to sin “by letting anger control you. Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil.” (Ephesians 4:26-27) The reason we refuse to forgive is our own pride, which deceives us into thinking our unforgiving spirit is justified. The reason we must forgive is because we’ve been forgiven by God. (Colossians 3:13)

3. The Door of Jealousy

Jealousy is one of those sins that eats away at our souls. The Bible says, “jealousy is fierce as the grave. Its flashes are flashes of fire, the very flame of the LORD.” (Song of Sol. 8:6) Jealousy reflects a distrust of God because we resent the attention, or success, or acceptance that someone else received. It’s saying we needed that thing more than we need the Lord. The Bible reminds us not to be “like Cain, who was of the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his own deeds were evil and his brother’s righteous.” (1 John 3:12)

Jealousy reflects a distrust of God

4. The Door of Guilt

In Revelation 12:10, Satan is called “the accuser of our brothers.” He speaks into our consciences and brings our past into clear focus. We hear the suggestion, “How will the Lord ever be able to use you? Look at what you’ve done.” All of us have things in our past of which we are greatly ashamed. If anyone could identify with this, it was surely be the apostle Paul. He was guilty of horrible things like forcing Christians to blaspheme and throwing men and women into prison if they confessed Jesus as Messiah. He was even complicit in the deaths of Christians. How did he deal with the guilt?

He understood those former sins were blotted out by the blood of Jesus. (cf. Psalm 51:9) After his conversion he refused to allow guilt to hinder his mission saying, “I always take pains to have a clear conscience toward both God and man.” (Acts 24:16) The Puritans said it this way: “Keep short accounts with God and men.” For them, this meant the regular practice of confession, completely and continually. Don’t allow the devil to bind you in the chains of guilt. Make your confession and receive the Lord’s full forgiveness.

5. The Door of Immorality

When Jesus sent out his disciples for ministry, he gave them power over “unclean spirits.” (Matthew 10:1) It is generally agreed that such spirits are demons that seek to contaminate and defile what God desires to be holy. They take pleasure in corrupting our thoughts and actions. I am convinced they are behind the struggle so many men have with pornography. They must be resisted, steadfast in the faith. (1 Peter 5:9)

Don’t become a casualty. Know where you’re vulnerable and get those doors firmly shut. Depend completely and continually on the Lord. As the Apostle Paul wrote: “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.” (Ephesians 6:10-11)