Note 10 at 2 Cor. 2:11: The principles found in this verse bring great understanding to the believer in effectively dealing with the devil and his host. Paul is stating that unforgiveness is one of the major ways that the devil gets advantage over us. The word "advantage" carries the idea of one who would be in a relatively favorable or superior position. It is possible for Satan to get the advantage over us or Paul would not have said this.

Basically, any sin gives Satan an opening into our lives (Rom. 6:16). However, the sin of unforgiveness is given special attention by the Lord Jesus (Mt. 6:14-15; 18:35; Mk. 11:25-26) and His half brother James (Jam. 3:16). Their teachings leave no doubt that unforgiveness is a luxury none of us can afford. Unforgiveness is not only detrimental to others, but it delivers us over to the tormentors (Mt. 18:34-35). Satan takes advantage of unforgiveness.

Note 11 at 2 Cor. 2:11: Notice what Paul did not say here. He did not say that we were supposed to have a Ph.D. in demonology. Some have used this verse to justify focusing on Satan and his activity to an inordinate degree. This will actually encourage demonic activity and become a device that Satan can use against us.

Paul said we should not be "ignorant" of Satan's devices. We certainly need to know that the devil and demons exist, and we need to recognize when we are facing demonic activity. But we need to keep our focus on the Lord. Some people who are excessive in "spiritual warfare" actually spend more time talking to the devil each day than they do talking to God. That's not right.

The best defense against the devil is to be so "God-centered" that we give no place to Satan. People who are very sensitive to the devil's presence usually do so at the expense of being sensitive to the Lord's presence. David said, "if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there" (Ps. 139:8). Any time Satan's oppression is there, God's presence is present, too (Heb. 13:5)! It's just a matter of which one we focus on. Focusing on the devil is a trick of the devil.

Note 12 at 2 Cor. 2:11: The word "devices" carries the idea of a plan, scheme, device, or an evil purpose. We must resist the devil by renouncing his schemes, confessing any known sin, and forgiving those who have offended us (1 Jn. 1:9; Mt. 18:21-35). Don't wait until you feel like forgiving. because it will never happen. Forgiveness is a choice. Because God has forgiven you in Christ, decide to give that forgiveness to others. In so doing Satan will lose his advantage over you.