Hi Eugene,
Luke 22:31 And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan has desired you, that he may siftG4617 you as wheat.
Thayer Definition:
1) to sift, shake in a sieve
2) fig. by inward agitation to try one’s faith to the verge of overthrow
This is just another analogy to show what Satan is capable of. It's interesting that Paul says to delivery someone that was sinning (fornication) "to Satan for the destruction of the flesh."
1Co 5:5 to deliver such a one to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, so that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.
Think how sifting wheat is removing the chaff, and Paul says Satan destoryes the flesh, chaff - flesh.
Also think of Job and what Satan put him through. Satan is a cunning serpent (Gen 3:1), a roaring lion, seeking someone he may devour (1 Peter 5:
. These are all analogies that show the character of Satan and what he is capable of. He is the "evil one." But we do not have to fear him.
1John 5:18 We know that whosoever is begotten of God sinneth not; but he that was begotten of God keepeth himself, and the evil one toucheth him not. (ASV)
mercy, peace and love
Kat