[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”3.22″ _i=”0″ _address=”0″][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”3.25″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” _i=”0″ _address=”0.0″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” _i=”0″ _address=”0.0.0″ custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”3.27.4″ hover_enabled=”0″ _i=”0″ _address=”0.0.0.0″]
We have learnt that there is a war that is raging all around us, and everyone is fighting. You are either under an attack or about to be attacked. We have also learnt that Satan uses deception, accusation, and afflictions as his main weapons to fight the human race. His main intention is to stop the salvation of man, to frustrate the building of the kingdom of God, and to usurp and neutralize the authority of Christ.
Today, we want to discuss 5 deceptions that the devil uses on you. We will seek to understand four ways in which he tries to deceive us. The Bible teaches that the devil masquerades, he uses wiles and cons to deceive us. So, four of such deceptions are as follows;
1. Distracting you from the primary purpose:
The devil knows that where there is no clear vision the people cast off restraint. He therefore, schemes to distract us from the original purpose or course that we set out to pursue. One things I have learnt from the life of Jesus Christ is the fact that He kept His purpose and course primary. Many of us backslide because we come to church only to graduate into a job, relationship, marriage, or into a position. But whatever God gives you is meant to be a tool, a stepping stone, to aid you to contribute to the building of the kingdom, the salvation of men, and in establishing the authority of Christ on earth.
2. Blinding the eye of your understanding:
We must understand that there is a light that shines in every word, counsel, or message that your pastor shares from the word of God. The devil’s main strategy is to blind us, so that this glorious light in the gospel will not shine to us, lest we believe and be saved. 2 Corinthians 4 teaches us that as long as we (the ministers of the gospel) are not using the scriptures for dishonest gains, there is a light that must shine to you, in your hearts when we preach. You should not allow the contradictions you see in and on the preacher to blind you. Anytime, you are having a hard time seeing the glory and light in the gospel, message, word, or the counsel of your pastor, remember that the devil is blinding you, and it is a form of deception.
3. Creating imaginations in your mind:
Another major source of deception is the creation of imaginations in the minds of people. 2 Corinthians 10:3-6 (KJV) states very clearly that, “though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: [4] (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) [5] Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; [6] And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled”.
The Lord has given us mighty weapons to pull down imaginations or thoughts that exalt themselves above the knowledge of God. Immediately the devil is able to create imaginations in your thoughts, you are finished. Let us be careful about imaginations. Let us strive to pull down all imaginations and thoughts that exalt themselves above the knowledge of God.
4. Showing counter signs when God manifests signs:
We learn in Revelation 12 that when the sign of the woman with child appeared in heaven, another sign appeared. This other sign was the manifestation of Lucifer. When Moses’ rod turned into a serpent, the magicians also laid down their rods and they also became serpents. The devil will always try to mimic the signs and wonders of God. That is why you don’t have to follow signs; just follow the truth and signs and wonders will follow you (See Mark 16:15-16)
5. Making you offended in your helpers and shepherds:
It is important not to allow offenses to take root in you concerning your helper or shepherd. Matthew 11:13-17 (KJV) teaches that, “all the prophets and the law prophesied until John. [14] And if ye will receive it, this is Elias, which was for to come. [15] He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. [16] But whereunto shall I liken this generation? It is like unto children sitting in the markets, and calling unto their fellows, [17] And saying, We have piped unto you, and ye have not danced; we have mourned unto you, and ye have not lamented”.
One of the key deceptions of the devil to make you offended in your pastor or helper. I pray that you will never pick offence. Judas betrayed Jesus because he was offended in Him. Let me tell you the truth, anytime you pick offense in your pastor or helper, you become an easy prey of the devil.
None of us shall fall prey to the devil. You will rise above every deception. You shall win the battle against deception and not fail, in the name of Jesus Christ. You will win and not faint. Be blessed!
I love you;
Noah Simpe Bediako
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
