DO NOT GIVE THE DEVIL A FOOTHOLD.
EPHESIANS 4:27 NIV
Have you ever got into an argument just before church, then felt ‘hypocritical’ in the worship because of what you said 10 minutes before? All the while the devil is smiling and saying ‘Gotcha’. That’s because he knows God’s Word can only be ‘sown in peace’ (James 3:18). If he can keep you from receiving the seed of God’s Word, he can rob you of the harvest of blessing that comes from it. That’s why you must be on your guard and protect your peace. Do you know that there’s power in peace? Think about this: if the devil can get you upset then in a way he has won power over you; and you aren’t going to let that happen are you? He only gains control when you ‘lose it’. Well make a decision today that you won’t let him steal your peace, confuse you or make you run in circles any more. Listen, ‘The wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure and full of quiet gentleness. Then it is peace-loving and courteous. It allows discussion and is willing to yield to others; it is full of mercy and good deeds. It is wholehearted and straightforward and sincere. And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of goodness’ (James 3:17-18 TLB). Next time you get all worked up, ask yourself ‘If I give in to these negative emotions, what will the result be?’ Remember, if you lose your joy you lose your strength, because ‘the joy of the Lord is your strength’ (Nehemiah 8:10). So today – watch out and stay cool!
