(From a previous post, Richard G. Scott (deceased) writing on ‘Divine Truths to Help You Live by the Spirit’. “Think of it. Some are tempted to violate the most basic commandments of God because of seductive actions portrayed as acceptable. They are made to seem attractive, even desirable, seems to be no serious consequence, rather apparent lasting joy and happiness. But recognize that those performances are controlled by scripts and actors. The outcome of decisions made is likewise manipulated to be whatever the producer wants. A recurring pattern of deceit prevails). . . . now continuing—-
One who follows this pattern of deceit tries to appear to have influence and capabilities that he does not possess. Satan is the epitome of this model of life. The adversary is a consummate bluffer. He is extraordinarily able to make people think he has power that he doesn’t have. I say that on the basis of personal knowledge. I have been in areas of the world where he has exceptional influence among the people, and I know that a determined person who is living righteously and can call upon the power of the Lord to help, can avoid any encounters with that evil one. That requires righteous living, it requires faith in the power of Jesus Christ, but it can be done. I know positively that is true. If he had power over our agency, he would have used it long ago. That ought to give you a lot of courage.
Never forget that Satan is a real personage with devoted, capable assistants. They are determined to overpower you, not with an onslaught of serious temptations suddenly presented, but by carefully placed, alluring, seemingly unimportant infractions of your long-established standards. The adversary would use these temptations to skillfully lead you away from the path of righteousness. “Thus the devil cheateth their souls, and leadeth them away carefully down to hell” (2 Nephi 28:21). He knows that as long as you can be led by the Holy Spirit, you can resist him. The Lord has made it possible for you to resist Satan’s temptations. When obedient, you will be inspired to know what to do and have capacity to do it.
Avoid worldly wickedness. Know that God is in control. In time, Satan will completely fail and be punished for his perverse evil. Keep in your mind and heart the truth that God’s eternal purpose is for you to be successful in this mortal life. No matter how wicked the world becomes, you can earn that blessing. ~Richard G. Scott, 21 Principles (Deseret Book: Salt Lake City, 2013), 38-39
