God's ultimate authority

Then the Lord said to Satan, “Have you considered My servant Job? No one else on earth is like him, a man of perfect integrity, who fears God and turns away from evil.”9 Satan answered the Lord, “Does Job  fear God for nothing? 10 Haven’t You placed a hedge around him, his household, and everything he owns? You have blessed the work of his hands, and his possessions are spread out in the land. 11 But stretch out Your hand and strike everything he owns, and he will surely curse You to Your face.”12 “Very well,” the Lord told Satan, “everything he owns is in your power. However, you must not lay a hand on Job [himself] .” So Satan went out from the Lord’s presence.

Job 1:8-12 (HCSB)

This passage of Scripture enlightens us of a very important truth.  God is the ultimate authority over all things.  When we speak of Satan and his power it is important to realize he is not equal with God.  It is not a cosmic battle of equal powers good (God) and evil (Satan).  Satan can do nothing without the permission of God.

We serve an awesome God of unequaled power.  We must trust Him and know He loves us.  When Satan is at work it is under the scrutiny of God.  If God has allowed it, He has a purpose for it.

Let me encourage you that next time you feel that Satan is fighting against you, ask yourself, "what is God trying to teach me or how is God planning for His own glory through my difficulties?"