When we become a Christian, we are set free.
Forgiven of our sins.
And we know this is a good thing.
But sometimes we act as though we’d prefer to be back in prison.
Or we put ourselves back in the courtroom, going over all the things we’ve done wrong.
Instead of accepting God’s payment.
Remember that Satan is Enemy Number One.
He tries to get at God’s children through four methods:
Satan:
- Tempts us to sin
- Accuses/blames us when we sin
- Deceives us and
- Distracts us/ diverts our attention to something else other than God.
It’s important to be aware of these tactics so we can fight the lies.
Being a Christian can feel like a battle…
Because it is.
We’re fighting a war within ourselves.
As Ephesians 6:12 says:
“Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”
Our battle is spiritual.
And it shows itself in those four ways.
When we are tempted to sin.
When we wrestle with constant self-doubt and shame.
When we feel confusion about whether we really are a Christian.
And when we are distracted by the things of the world.
These are giveaway signs we’re dealing with a spiritual struggle.
That’s not to say we shouldn’t wrestle with our sin.
It’s normal to have a conscience about the things we do and say that aren’t right.
To strive to do better and be better.
But if we’re in a constant shame spiral, we must question whether it’s of God, or of Satan.
And I find it helps to ask God to speak into these doubts and fears.
Because perfect love casts out fear.
That’s where we find freedom.
That’s where we find peace.
In the safe, secure, everlasting arms of Jesus.
It's a God thing... 