Is The Devil Real?

Today's message is a response to a question from one of my LinkedIn contacts.

"I believe that many of the travails of both America and the Church currently stem from people who are spending too much time arguing details and policy, and not enough time understanding the truth of the founding principles upon which all else depends. Instead of arguing specifics of policy positions, we would be better served returning to our founding principles and building from there. Only then can we make correct decisions based on “the truth” So here is my question...Is the Devil Real?"

Michael, You are hitting at the core of America's problem partner.

"If you live according to My teaching, you are truly My disciples; then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." (John 8:31-32).

One of the most effective weapons the "father of lies" uses is divisiveness. Just look at how many Christians so often vehemently argue with each other over differences of opinion.

Mahatma Gandhi is said to have studied Christianity intensely but declined to become a follower of Christ because he, "knew so many Christians who were so unlike Christ."

Christians spend so much time and energy debating the differences among Catholics and Protestants that the common focus and beliefs are somehow diminished and marginalized. We then become a vulnerable target for the enemy.

Matthew quotes Jesus in his Gospel, "A kingdom torn by strife is headed for its downfall. A household split into factions cannot last for long." (12:25), and later, "He who is not with Me is against Me, and he who does not gather with Me scatters." (12:30).

Is the devil real? You bet... "Stay sober and alert. Your opponent the devil is prowling like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour." (1 Peter 5:8).

This is how we fight the enemy...

Paul says we are engaged in Christian warfare and we must, "Put on the armor of God so that you may be able to stand firm against the tactics of the devil. Our battle is not against human forces but against the principalities and powers, the rulers of this world of darkness, the evil spirits in regions above. You must put on the armor of God if you are to resist on the evil day; do all that your duty requires and hold your ground." (Ephesians 6:11-13).

Every evil in this world is the result of satan's activities. We must pray constantly to our Lord that He will prevent the liar from corrupting our lives and the lives of all people around the world. "In all circumstances hold faith up before you as your shield; it will help you extinguish the fiery darts of the devil." (Ephesians 6:16).

Once we allow the Holy Spirit to indwell in our hearts (love God and love your neighbor), we can then have the confidence of knowing that, "Greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world." (1 John 4:4) and ,"No weapon formed against you shall prevail." (Isaiah 54:17).

Today we celebrate the irrefutable evidence that we as true followers of Christ can be assured the outcome of the war is already decided...and WE WIN! Thanks be to God. Alleluia!

Happy Easter!

Bobby