It was beyond thrilling once I realized the Bible was a How-to Book, a list of Master's tools, for overcoming whatever we face in the world. I'd see all kinds of wonderful instruction and promises, then look around and not see such faith in others. It was as if they believed Jesus died on the cross, then lied about all the rest. If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. 1 Co. 15:19 And, if we are miserable, we just might have a contracted a contagious disease - known as Stinkin' Thinkin'. As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he ... Pr. 23:7. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to grow toward protecting ourselves from the lies of Satan. Only two options are available for which to place our faith: (1.) to (positively) believe God, or (2.) to (negatively) call Him a liar, (1.) to give glory to God (by recognizing Him for who He is and who He said He would be for and through us), or (2.) to give credit to Satan (by focusing on all that is wrong with us and the world). Of course, we could choose to place ourselves on God's throne (thinking we have no need of Him). Our choice determines to whom we give power, to which presence we will dwell in. And, we know that Satan both promotes pride and accuses the Brethren. So, the next time a negative thought comes our way, before we open our mouth, stop to think. Just who are we representing, anyway? Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. Satan is like a roaring lion, all he does is roar. We either give him power to devour us, or we choose to believe God. It is impossible to fall or fail following the instruction God speaks to us - as Satan can't defeat God. Being that nothing is too hard for God, rejoice even before He brings it to pass. Ro. 4:17 Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Only God knows how to defeat Satan and where he'll be lurking next (Pr. 14:12), so it is most advisable to get one's instruction and faith from the words God speaks to you (Jb. 23:12). Be careful for nothing; But when they shall lead you, and deliver you up, take no thought beforehand what ye shall speak, neither do ye premeditate: but whatsoever shall be given you in that hour, that speak ye: for it is not ye that speak, but the Holy Ghost. Mk. 13:11 but in every thing by prayer (praying in the Holy Ghost by laying your hands on the word of God, comparing scripture with scripture, rightly dividing the words of truth) ... because they are spiritually discerned. 1 Co. 2:14 and supplication Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: Mt. 7:7 with thanksgiving (Strait is the Gate) .... Enter into His gates with thanksgiving ... Ps. 100:4 let your requests be made known unto God. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Mt. 6:10 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you. Ph. 4:8-9 © by Joyce C. Lock