Readings:
Acts 11:1-18
Psalm 42:2-3,42:3-4
John 10:1-10
We are more impressionable than we want to believe. We believe that we have control over what we eat, what we think, who we listen to, who we go out with, the kinds of things we are interested in and the things we will never waste time on. But that is not true. In the right situation and for the right reasons, you will be led to believe anything. How are people scammed, have you ever asked yourself? Is it that they are not smart, or they do not suspect a foul play? This is why Jesus tells us that He is the gate to the sheepfold (John 10:1-10). Others who seek to have access to you are thieves and brigands. If you listen to Him and do as He commands, you will find truth, peace and eternal life; you will be protected from those who want to scam you.
How do we listen to Jesus at the gate of the sheepfold?
Invite the Holy Spirit into your heart at the beginning of each day—for guidance and inspiration.
Read God’s word—Read a passage of scripture, first thing in the morning. Knowledge of God’s word is powerful.
Keep your guard up—When you say “I don’t want to be strong any more”, you are opening yourself up for the enemy’s attack.
Present your needs and desires to God in prayer and leave them there. He knows exactly what to do.
Train yourself to discern between good and evil—Seek what is good always and never allow yourself to slip into sinfulness.
Know your enemy’s mission—He comes to kill your faith, steal your hope and destroy your life by turning you away from the love of God and heavenly things (Beware of KSDs).
Vigilance is needed—Don’t give sin and evil a place in your heart. if you allow evil to take root in you, your enemy will take advantage of that and destroy you.
Test the spirit—Do not believe everything you see and hear.
Question the source—Take the pain to find out if something is off. If it is too good to be true, it is certainly too good to be true.
Beware of pretenders and false shepherds who do not mean well to you—They prey on your desires and needs and offer you false alternatives to the things you crave.
Seek spiritual direction—Never presume you know everything. It is better to seek a second opinion and find out that you are right than presume you are right and fall for a cheap scam.
Delay your action for a bit so that you have time to think through your decision.
These tips have practical implications for your spiritual life, your relationships with people and every other aspect of your life. I pray that it profits you in more ways this week. Feel free to reach out for counselling and prayer at any time and I pray that God’s blessings be with you always.
JUDE-MARY OWOH
To surrender your life to Christ, say this prayer aloud. “Father, I acknowledge my sin against You. I repent and ask for forgiveness, in the name of Jesus. I surrender to the Lordship of Jesus. By the power of Your Holy Spirit, take control of my heart and lead me in Your path of righteousness. Thank you, Lord.”
If you said the prayer, Congratulations! Prayerfully look for a living church and report to the resident reverend, pastor or priest.
Prayer:
May God grant you the gift of discernment in all that you do today. In your relationships and the things, you consider valuable, may God deliver you from evil.
In the things that you do not suspect are evil, may God be your shield and protection. You will receive every good and perfect gift which adds no sorrow today and always in Jesus’ name. Amen.
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