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When the Enemy Strikes
Your enemy is strong. The battle is real. Prepare for victory.
Fear, discouragement, loneliness, anger, temptation. These struggles are common to every human. Yet not all circumstances or negative emotions originate within. They could be the result of a willful, coordinated assault of Satan.
In When the Enemy Strikes, best-selling author Dr. Charles Stanley explores the often-overlooked reality of spiritual warfare?the tactics used by Satan to taunt, confuse, slander, and harm. Your adversary wants to crush your will, delay your promise, hinder your destiny, destroy your relationships, and lead you into sin. Dr. Stanley reveals how you should respond.
The most important component of warfare, says Dr. Stanley, is the supremacy of God?both His sovereignty and His power. Practically, this means the battles you face are ultimately allowed by God to bring you to a place of greater reliance on Him. His strength crushes the enemy.
This is a world of conflict between good and evil, of powers beyond the merely human. The battle is unavoidable, but take heart! God has given you the strength to stand.
Fear, discouragement, loneliness, anger, temptation. These struggles are common to every human. Yet not all circumstances or negative emotions originate within. They could be the result of a willful, coordinated assault of Satan.
In When the Enemy Strikes, best-selling author Dr. Charles Stanley explores the often-overlooked reality of spiritual warfare?the tactics used by Satan to taunt, confuse, slander, and harm. Your adversary wants to crush your will, delay your promise, hinder your destiny, destroy your relationships, and lead you into sin. Dr. Stanley reveals how you should respond.
The most important component of warfare, says Dr. Stanley, is the supremacy of God?both His sovereignty and His power. Practically, this means the battles you face are ultimately allowed by God to bring you to a place of greater reliance on Him. His strength crushes the enemy.
This is a world of conflict between good and evil, of powers beyond the merely human. The battle is unavoidable, but take heart! God has given you the strength to stand.
221 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 29, 2000
416 people are currently reading
899 people want to read
About the author
Charles F. Stanley
555 books685 followersDr. Charles F. Stanley is the senior pastor of First Baptist Church Atlanta, founder of In Touch Ministries, and a New York Times best-selling author who has written more than fifty books, and has sold more than nine million copies. He demonstrates a keen awareness of people's needs and provides Christ-centered, biblically-based principles for everyday life.
Charles Frazier Stanley was born September 25, 1932, in the small town of Dry Fork, Virginia. The only child of Charley and Rebecca Stanley, Charles came into the world during a time when the entire nation felt the grip of the Great Depression. To make matters worse, just nine months later, his father Charley died at the young age of 29.
However, Charles refused to let the Great Depression or the difficulties of his life define him. Instead, like his father and grandfather before him, he clung to God’s Word and took up the mantle to preach the gospel to whoever would listen.
Dr. Stanley’s motivation is best represented by the truth found in Acts 20:24, “Life is worth nothing unless I use it for doing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus—the work of telling others the Good News about God's mighty kindness and love.” This is because, as he says, “It is the Word of God and the work of God that changes people’s lives.”
Dr. Stanley’s teachings can be heard weekly at First Baptist Church Atlanta, daily on “In Touch with Dr. Charles Stanley” radio and television broadcasts on more than 2,800 stations around the world, on the Internet at intouch.org, through the In Touch Messenger, and in the monthly, award-winning In Touch magazine.
Charles Frazier Stanley was born September 25, 1932, in the small town of Dry Fork, Virginia. The only child of Charley and Rebecca Stanley, Charles came into the world during a time when the entire nation felt the grip of the Great Depression. To make matters worse, just nine months later, his father Charley died at the young age of 29.
However, Charles refused to let the Great Depression or the difficulties of his life define him. Instead, like his father and grandfather before him, he clung to God’s Word and took up the mantle to preach the gospel to whoever would listen.
Dr. Stanley’s motivation is best represented by the truth found in Acts 20:24, “Life is worth nothing unless I use it for doing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus—the work of telling others the Good News about God's mighty kindness and love.” This is because, as he says, “It is the Word of God and the work of God that changes people’s lives.”
Dr. Stanley’s teachings can be heard weekly at First Baptist Church Atlanta, daily on “In Touch with Dr. Charles Stanley” radio and television broadcasts on more than 2,800 stations around the world, on the Internet at intouch.org, through the In Touch Messenger, and in the monthly, award-winning In Touch magazine.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
January 1, 2021
I don’t know that I can recommend this book enough. It has been at least a year since I’ve read Charles Stanley and I forget how very down-to-earth yet Biblically-founded he is. This book was very much what I needed right now.
It covers so many different aspects of temptation and trials, what could be from satan, what could be a test from God, or what could be self-inflicted, and how to deal with each aspect.
So much Scripture is used in this book. Yes, the Ephesians 6 passage is used, but so much more is also referenced, backing up the claims presented in this book, which I greatly appreciate. Scripture references are not KJV.
I think I underlined a quarter of this book. There is so much truth packed in these pages as well as applicable lessons presented. Pastor Stanley gives several examples of how to create a plan to thwart the temptations of satan, including Scripture, prayer, and so much more.
It is impossible to really know how to give this a solid review. Just read it.
It covers so many different aspects of temptation and trials, what could be from satan, what could be a test from God, or what could be self-inflicted, and how to deal with each aspect.
So much Scripture is used in this book. Yes, the Ephesians 6 passage is used, but so much more is also referenced, backing up the claims presented in this book, which I greatly appreciate. Scripture references are not KJV.
I think I underlined a quarter of this book. There is so much truth packed in these pages as well as applicable lessons presented. Pastor Stanley gives several examples of how to create a plan to thwart the temptations of satan, including Scripture, prayer, and so much more.
It is impossible to really know how to give this a solid review. Just read it.
December 28, 2025
I love Charles Stanley! And I loved this book. It's full of practical ways believers can choose God over the enemy. Its packed full of scriptures and ways to walk out and in the Word, so that even when the enemy does attack, we are less vulnerable to him. There's a great balance on the focus between practical spiritual warfare such as intercession, and the spiritual warfare we wage by walking in the Word and in wisdom daily. I LOVED this balance, and throughout a lot of the book, felt like I was tapping into gold nuggets from a veteran in the faith. The amount of wisdom and spiritual insights in this book are tremendous. Highly recommend for any believer who wants to grow in their relationship with the Lord, gain a better understanding of spiritual warfare, and dig into wisdom for daily living with God.
April 3, 2013
This book applies to every Christian. It is very practical in describing how Satan attacks and how we can respond victoriously. I will be re-reading this book in the near future.
January 29, 2017
Charles Stanley is a great teacher of the things of God. This book is no exception. Especially love his teaching on the Full Armor of God.
March 21, 2022
I remember reading Amanda Tero’s review of this book a year or so ago and have wanted to get my hands on a copy ever since! When I finally did, I wasn’t disappointed! There were so many good things in this book I don’t know where to start. I underlined or marked many helpful and insightful passages and see myself rereading it again in the future. Stanley’s teaching is practical and rooted in scripture. Highly recommended!
September 30, 2012
Best book I've read yet! Very reafirming and strengthens your relationship with GOd :)
September 7, 2013
Great inspiration to me. I want to read it again in the next couple of years. Timeless inspiration that anyone could benefit from.
April 29, 2018
Stanley provides insight to equip, encourage, and empower every Christian for spiritual warfare. Written in a winsome way that keeps you turning pages and jotting down notes.
December 26, 2009
Reasonably astute handling of the matter of spiritual warfare. If you don't 'endorse' the Historic Christian faith, it probably won't resonate with you. But I've always admired Dr. Stanley, however outdated his "banking concept of preaching" is..In his fading era, he sought to represent God reasonably accurately. (It's disheartening that so few of his listeners absorbed much of what he modeled.
But again, Charles Stanley, while not a cerebral writer, still evinces a thorough knowledge of the primary variables which confront all of us as we "wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against powers and principalities..." (Ephesians 6). Of course, if you're not acutely aware of the angelic realm, and/or the supernatural source of human life, you won't identify with what this book addresses...-RCC (12-26-09)
But again, Charles Stanley, while not a cerebral writer, still evinces a thorough knowledge of the primary variables which confront all of us as we "wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against powers and principalities..." (Ephesians 6). Of course, if you're not acutely aware of the angelic realm, and/or the supernatural source of human life, you won't identify with what this book addresses...-RCC (12-26-09)
November 3, 2012
I really enjoy Dr. Stanley's teaching. Some may call him old fashioned, but I would say that's one of the things that I appreciate the most about him. I found that he communicated all of the essential points of Spiritual Warfare very clearly. He really has a grip on the importance of prayer in the Believer's life and offers very helpful advice to anyone who struggles in this area. He points toward specific examples in Scripture to help us to know what to pray for and how to pray.
I found this book very beneficial at this particular point of my life and highly recommend it to anyone who is seeking a closer walk with God.
I found this book very beneficial at this particular point of my life and highly recommend it to anyone who is seeking a closer walk with God.
March 23, 2011
This is a very well written book. Everybody experiences Spiritual attacks at some point in their life, and this book shows you the right ways to fight back, and defend yourself. It teaches you about the enemy, and how he works. What his tactics are, his goals, and why he wants to destroy you. Then it also teaches you about God's love, and ways you can get closer to him, and move forward in your walk. Its a very good book, and I recommend it to every Christian, and every non-believer as well because it can and will touch you.
February 14, 2014
I was torn at first, considering his prior history, but I prayed about it and let the details of the book speak for themselves. At the end I gained a new awareness of how the devil works in this world, and our most formidable weapon is the word of God. My next step is to make a commitment toward scripture and faith, this book helped me affirm that task.
December 11, 2007
Charles Stanley has a way of communicating. This book is important for every Christian in understanding how the Enemy (Satan) works in our lives. We need to understand him so we can resist him.
January 12, 2009
Great Self-Help
Want to read
March 20, 2010To read, next in line.. =)
July 23, 2010
A slow read with lots of outlines, exposition, and preaching. Useful for reference. Devotional. Not the most exciting book. If you like Stanley's old-fashioned style, then you'll like this book.
February 14, 2016
If you like Charles Stanley, this is another in his good works. Must protect yourself against the "enemy".
November 2, 2012
I really got a lot of out of this book. A new way to look at Satan & his devious ways & to prepare for those attacks! Thank you, Dr. Stanley.
April 1, 2013
Great insight into using the Bible to fight off sin.
August 15, 2013
Awesome!!! STAND on Gods word!!! We win, the devil is a liar!!!! I like this book it is a reminder of Gods power!!!
April 3, 2014
Should be read by everyone you know!
Read
March 18, 2008F Sta
January 25, 2021
Stanley has a really direct and accessible tone which feels empowering, since it's about knowing what we're up against with Satan. With everything going on in the world, this was helpful to me on both a personal and more general level. On a personal level, I appreciate having a better understanding of how the devil attacks our thoughts. He knows our weaknesses and that's one of mine.
Quotes:
"Too many people seem to think that God and Satan are in a tug-of-war, one pulling one way toward good and the other pulling in the opposite direction toward evil. While God and Satan are opponents, they are not equals. Satan is a created being, a finite creature. God is the infinite Creator. There's no comparison in their power, majesty or glory."
It's reassuring-even when it doesn't seem so (even when there are people staging a coup and vandalizing our Capitol while waving Christian flags...)-that there are limits on Satan.
And:"The devil desires for us to satisfy ourselves and, in so doing, to get off course from God's plan for our lives."
Quotes:
"Too many people seem to think that God and Satan are in a tug-of-war, one pulling one way toward good and the other pulling in the opposite direction toward evil. While God and Satan are opponents, they are not equals. Satan is a created being, a finite creature. God is the infinite Creator. There's no comparison in their power, majesty or glory."
It's reassuring-even when it doesn't seem so (even when there are people staging a coup and vandalizing our Capitol while waving Christian flags...)-that there are limits on Satan.
And:"The devil desires for us to satisfy ourselves and, in so doing, to get off course from God's plan for our lives."
July 23, 2019
I’m on my second time through, and this is a helpful, beautifully organized volume that delivers what it promises: godly strategies for resisting the attacks of our ancient Foe. Stanley punctuates his writing with pithy stories, some of them with a nice dose of self-deprecating humor and humility. If you’re a leader who wants some helpful anecdotes and sermon ideas, this book is an ideal resource. And if you’re a regular layperson in the trenches of daily spiritual life, you’ll find Stanley’s writing to be a wonderful blessing.
March 25, 2017
A good friend let me borrow this book in a time of great need in my family. I was depressed, anxious, and at the end of my rope. She knew from finishing it shortly before I started it that my emotions were the work of Satan during a low time in my life. This book pulled me out to realization that the Lord is in control. I literally learned how to rewire my brain to get through this collection of issues I had to deal with and lean heavily on my Savior. Thank you Dr. Stanley for providing this book from the truths the Lord laid on your heart.
September 26, 2020
If you happen to be reading the advice that applies to your particular situation, then the book is helpful, but to remember everything written is not practical. For that kind of encouragement, one would need to reread it many times, and the only book with which I want to become that familiar in regards to battling the enemy is the Bible. Still, it was an easy read. Perhaps Post-It flagging the book would prove beneficial.
January 31, 2021
Most comprehensive book about the Devil I have ever found.
I am so blessed to have found this book! With all the uncertainty surrounding all our lives in 2020, this book has been a God Send to me and my family. I feel more confident that I can "Stand Firm" against the Devil's attacks every day. I couldn't understand somethings about the full armor of God like I do now. I highly recommend this book to all Christians, new and mature in the faith and to seasoned Bible readers.
I am so blessed to have found this book! With all the uncertainty surrounding all our lives in 2020, this book has been a God Send to me and my family. I feel more confident that I can "Stand Firm" against the Devil's attacks every day. I couldn't understand somethings about the full armor of God like I do now. I highly recommend this book to all Christians, new and mature in the faith and to seasoned Bible readers.
August 20, 2021
Dr. Stanley has written another absolute masterpiece. This book is completely unmissable to any person who knows Jesus Christ. The sheer volume of revelation this man has acquired over his life... this will not be the last time I read this book. It is so jampacked with revelation and complete instruction for daily Christian life that it basically begs to be read on repeat. God bless this man. Thank you Dr. Stanley for writing another incredible book.
September 24, 2022
A must read for every Christian. This book is phenomenal. Charles Stanley is my favorite pastor because he really knows his stuff. He always provides great insight and practical tips. This book is no exception. This book is so eye opening and will help you see the ways the enemy has sneakily wormed his way into your life. But this book will also help you to stand strong against the devil’s tactics, as you cling to Jesus. I cannot say enough good things about this book.
February 11, 2025
Charles Stanley is always good for some basic and fundamental theology. There is plenty of scripture to ponder and reflect on along with the understanding he brings to the controversial subject of the devil and the evil side of the world. There is a terrific discussion of the armor of God from Ephesians 6. For me it was a good overview and reminder of what I believe as I read these passages of scripture. As he concludes in the book, the enemy will strike. Be prepared!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews