Ephesians 6:10-12
10 A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. 12 For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.
Satan is at work behind the scenes to create havoc in our relationships. Are you tired of being manipulated?
Last week I watched two friends walk into Starbucks together laughing and joking, only to leave separately, yelling and arguing with each other. Satan schemes have always included, divide and conquer. We are called to stand in the Lord’s strength, so that we can respond to hate speech with respect, truth, and kindness. Satan may not be seen, but he is all too real. Let’s choose not to be used by him. So how do we stand for God’s truth, in a world and culture that spits on God’s word and His people? First, we need to have humble hearts and depend upon the Holy Spirit. We also need to be quick to forgive so that our anger doesn’t mature into wrath.
Psalm 37:8-9
Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret—it leads only to evil. 9 For those who are evil will be destroyed, but those who hope in the Lord will inherit the land.
Satan use our negative emotions to set off conflict that leads to hate and separation. I don’t know about you, but I’m tired of being manipulated by the demonic forces. If we are living in chaos and anger, we won’t experience healthy relationships with the people in our lives. Satan is so manipulative he will infect our logic and reason with pride and anger. Thoughts like, I’m right and that’s all that matters will consume us if we let it. For healthy relationships, is it more important to be right or to be loving?
Who do you need to forgive or ask for forgiveness from?
What is keeping you from trying to live in peace with this person?
What is the Holy Spirit saying to you through these scriptures?