Hollywood's Depiction of satan - The Lord of The Rings: Rings of Power

I remain stunned at how Hollywood can craft villains so well on screen. It is even more shocking how certain characters seem to embody what I can only imagine satan to be like.

Recently, I watched season 2 of The Lord of the Rings: Rings of Power series. One character, Halbrand/Sauron, seemed to encapsulate satan. It was clear he had to rely on the skills and authority of the other characters to wield power. He was manipulative, used lies, misdirection and deception to achieve his goals.

I watched him gaslight others into doing his bidding, as well as use spells, trickery, and false visions against individuals who were ill equipped to defend themselves against him.

This is exactly what the devil does to people. It whispers lies, weaving them with half truths, and causes individuals and groups to think they are making their own choices, when in reality, they are being led by the enemy to achieve its designs.

Without the guidance of the Holy Spirit, anyone can become subject to the schemes of satan. It is Holy Spirit who teaches the children of God how to move on this earth so that they do not succumb to the devil's plans (Isaiah 30:21).

And nobody can access Him without giving their life to Christ. That is how the Lord has designed things and no one can change it. However, those who are led by the Spirit of the Lord are the children of God per Romans 8:14. And these children are guaranteed victory against the devil (Romans 8:37).

This is why satan does everything it can to distract humanity from knowing Jesus and receiving what they need to defeat it. In the TV show, Halbrand/Sauron AKA satan, pit groups against each other, weaponizing misunderstandings and suspicions for its gain - death and destruction.

It is important for God's people to be aware of the tactics of their enemy. Jesus taught in 2 Corinthians 11 that we - God's children - are not unaware of the devil's schemes and when we pay attention, satan cannot overcome us.

The Bible is our key resource and as we study it, the Holy Spirit will teach what we need to know. When we ask the Lord for further understanding, He will give it because He will give wisdom freely without finding fault (James 1:5). And with the name of Jesus on our side, there are no limitations to what He will do.

While this is no endorsement of the show, I have appreciated seeing a visual depiction of how satan operates. It has equally caused me to value even more the grace and power of God because it is Him I rely on. One character called Halbrand/Sauron the "Great Deceiver" and that is perfect moniker for the devil. I pray that we will steep ourselves in God and His word for then shall we have His wisdom. The Bible teaches in Psalm 119:98 - Your commands are always with me and make me wiser than my enemies.

That shall be our portion, IJMN, Amen.