J.B. and I (and two of our kids—all in different departments) work at a company that distributes software to IT providers. We provide solutions to help small businesses track their inventory, backup their data, and work more efficiently. But a threat to them all, regardless of their industry or business model, is cyber attacks. We read about cyber crime on a far too regular basis. That’s why our company also has an entire department dedicated to security, both within the company and for our partners.
October 2023 was Cybersecurity Month, with a big emphasis on recognizing the tactics used by cyber criminals. We teach IT providers to train their clients’ employees on how to recognize cyber attacks. For instance, never click on a link in an email unless you know it comes from a trusted source. If you receive an email with an urgent or demanding tone, insisting that you update your account information, do not fall for the bait. These “phishing emails” are just one type of email scam cybercriminals use repeatedly, and far too successfully, to gain access to innocent people’s financial information.
That probably sounded like a public service announcement. (I could actually write an entire post of ways to spot fraud online!) But God has His own public service announcement with practical ways to protect yourself:
In Ephesians 6:11-18 Paul instructs:
Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. (You live in a war zone, so get geared up!)
For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. (People—such as an annoying neighbors, politicians, or your boss—are not your enemy. Make sure you’re fighting the right foe.)
Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist on the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. (Stay spiritually strong!)
Stand firm therefore, having belted your waist with truth (Be well versed in the truth of God’s grace.)
and having put on the breastplate of righteousness (Guard your heart; do not give way to fear, bitterness, etc.)
and having strapped on your feet the preparation of the gospel of peace. (Be ready and willing to share the good news of God’s loving gospel of peace. People need to hear about and see God’s love in action.)
In addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. (Faith is your protection. Build your faith muscles by believing in God’s goodness.)
And take the helmet of salvation (Know that your salvation is secure.)
and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. (Learn the truths of God’s Word to protect you against the enemy’s lies.)
Just as we all face cybercriminals, we must be alert and recognize the attacks of our spiritual foe. We have a common enemy, and God gives us the armor we need to win those battles.
This was so timely…….just removed several “potential” scams from my phone!! Asking GOD to remove devil’s potential scams from my heart!!!!!