Most cars have the following inscribed on the passenger side mirror, “OBJECTS IN MIRROR ARE CLOSER THAN THEY APPEAR.” Have we considered that Satan is closer than he appears?
“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour” (I Peter 5:8).
Satan has his focus on God’s children because he already has his grasp on those who are outside of Christ. He knows the weaknesses of Christians and churches and will seek to exploit each. Individual weaknesses may include being consumed with cares of the world, addictions, materialism, self-gratification, etc. For churches, weaknesses may include lack of leadership, not being grounded in scriptures, dissensions, grumblings, false doctrine, and many more. Matthew 7:15 warned of false prophets who come in sheep’s clothing.
We must guard ourselves against the cunningness and craftiness of the devil. We must not allow ourselves to become disconnected from the body of Christ. Alone, you are more vulnerable. Alone, there will be a void that Satan will attempt to fill with sin. I am baffled when some do not appreciate and take advantage of their church family and the need to bond with them. Some try to walk their Christian life alone independent of fellow Christians.
Walk daily in the Lord. Search the scriptures. Pray for knowledge and wisdom. Pray for discernment. Be involved with the Lord’s church. We will find comfort in God and in the presence of our fellow brothers and sisters.
“But the Lord is faithful, who will establish you and guard you from the evil one. And we have confidence in the Lord concerning you, both that you do and will do the things we command you” (II Thessalonians 3:3-4).
For the elders, Terry Clark