“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world.” 1 Peter 5:8-9                                   “Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.” James4:7-8

“And no wonder! For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light.” 2 Cor. 11:14
“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” John 10:27

COMMENTS:  Satan’s communication to us is in the form of powerful temptations appealing to our eyes and mind and senses.   His communication is often directly by his voice in our minds as an idea or thought.   How do we know it is his voice and not our own or even God’s voice?

Well, a good clue is what he is asking or motivating us to say or do.   If we know it is evil and sinful, that is an obvious red flag.  If consequences are harmful to us and/or others, is a pretty clear red flag also.  If it also goes against scripture commands including the 10 commandments and Christ’s instruction recorded in scripture, including His beatitudes, that is a strong red flag. 

Truth is, if we would delay responding to a temptation, we would likely find the temptation would quickly loose its strength and appeal.  It certainly would if we would delay and use that time to seek the Holy Spirit’s council and help.  If we would do that, I dare say we would quickly gain victory over habitual temptations and sins.  But we don’t and then face consequences, some of which often remain after we seek Christ’s forgiveness again. 

Not all temptations carry the same level of consequence or damage at least on the surface, but potentially instead keep us from full obedience and fulfilling God’s call in every situation.  Deciding not to visit or call someone God nudges you to because a small voice tells you can’t take the time or have other things would rather do first.  Sin includes “sin of commission” or actions that are sinful but also include sins of “omission” or good things we decline to do.  You and I are guilty of both and need to repent of both to fully surrender to His Loving Will and Wise Plan.      

If you wish, you can access my blog at “https://donsdevotions.wordpress.com”. There you will find 272 blog posts I have made plus a link to my devotional journal material archives from 2013 to present. 

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