Satan can transform himself into an angel of light. False prophets and deceitful workers mimic Satan by making themselves out to be Apostles of Christ (2 Corinthians 11:14). The devil's name used to be lucifer, which means light. He weakens nations and creates havoc (Isaiah 14:12-19). He tempts God's children to sin (Matthew chapter 4 and 1Peter 5:8).
If this powerful enemy can disguise himself as an angel of light, how are we mere humans going to tell when we are being deceived?
God has given us litmus tests, two of which are in the book of James. 1) Satanic actions are filled with envy, selfish ambition and pride (James 3:13-16). 2) Satanic motives are to gather things for ourselves at the cost of others (James 4:1-5). 3) Satanic motives are to place ourselves or others before God (1 John 4:1-3).
James also tells us how to overcome Satan. "Submit yourselves to God, resist the Devil and he will flee from you (James 4:6).
