Portrait of an Enemy

I’m an outcast
Known as Satan (your brother)
Because I am denied
A physical body
Like yours;
I am envious, and
Constantly seek to destroy you.

My powers are great
And my methods insidious;
But I can cannot control
Nor influence
Those who make up
Their mind
To have nothing to do with me.

I weaken souls slowly,
Feed their vain pride,
I justify falsehood
To gain for my side.

I sow contention,
Deceit and distrust;
I confuse and discourage—
Day and night if I must.

For all that I have to gain
Is at stake
‘Til lives can tarnish
And hearts I can break.

The wise will reject me,
Drive me away
Through prayer and persistence
Toward goals day by day.

The meek and obedient
Who share faith and strength
Can rob me of prospects
And conquer at length

My power to dissuade them—
For they hold in view
Eternity’s blessings,
And life ever new.

Dorothy Smith Clark