In the 1970s, a talented comedian named Flip Wilson, made the phrase “The devil made me do it” famous. He portrayed characters like the “Rev” and Geraldine who liked to blame things on the devil. If you have forgotten or you’re too young to remember you can watch this segment.
I have to think Satan loved Geraldine. She helped in both of his strategies: to get credit for things he didn’t do and to be made such a comic character that no one would take him seriously. Hollywood has helped him out often. Who can forget the sinister movie, the Exorcist? To those who are too young, I won’t help you with a video clip…too scary.
When we begin to consider spiritual warfare we will run into both of Satan’s schemes. Like so much in life, balance is what is required. Satan wants you to sin, but sometimes you want it yourself or the temptations of the world are just too strong. Yes, demonic possession and lesser levels of influence do exist. Satan is real. But just because you’re not spewing forth pea soup and your head is not spinning around 360 degrees, doesn’t mean he’s leaving you alone. And when you covet that dress, electronic gadget or your neighbor’s spouse, Satan could be hanging around or it could be just you.. Does it matter? Just don’t do it.
It all comes down to discernment. The ability to know about spiritual things. Discernment is an acquired ability. We acquire it by hanging around with God. Now we’re back to prayer and fasting. Spending time with Our Lord, we absorb so much including a enhanced sense of the spiritual. It’s the most/ important tool in our arsenal.
As you begin to consider the spiritual, don’t make things too spiritual. Satan’s goal is to impact what you do in the natural, your behavior. He doesn’t want you at church. He doesn’t want you sharing. He doesn’t want you loving. He wants you so distracted by the things of the world, that you forget about your true nature and your ultimate home.
Don’t let him do it. Don’t make “The Devil made me do it” your catch phrase. The best way is just not to do “it.”
Be blessed.
Nick
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