Most of us would agree that becoming a Christian is the best thing that ever happened to us. A new heart and a ticket to heaven can’t be beat as a deal!
But with this glorious gift comes a price we must pay. We were the devil’s friend and servant in the past. Now that we belong to God, we are the devil’s target. He harasses us with temptation; He attacks our bodies with problems or disease; He fills our mind with fears; He brings enemies against us; He tries to hurt our families and keep us feeling separated and lonely.
But guess what? Greater is He that is within us than he that is in the world. The devil may appear big but Jesus defeated him when he went to the cross. Using God’s Word as a weapon, we can defeat every attack of the devil. In Hosea, God says my people die for lack of knowledge. God will give us this knowledge if we ask for it. (1 John 4:4, Hosea 4:6)
God’s Word is Powerful
God’s Word in the Bible is a powerful weapon. When Jesus was in the desert for 40 days and nights, He was challenged repeatedly by the devil. Each time Jesus answered by saying “It is written” and then accurately quoting a scripture. We need to do the same. (Matthew 4:1-11)
When the devil tells you: “You’ll never get out of here – forget even trying,” you can answer – God has set me free so I am free indeed. I am free on the inside. With God’s help, nothing is impossible! I will watch Him work and thank him and praise Him in the meantime. (John 8:36, Matthew 19:26)
Scripture tells us to thank God and praise Him in everything, especially when the devil is attacking us. It is hard to do, but when you do, you will see miracles start to happen. (Philippians 4:6)
When the devil tells you that your wife will never change, she hates you and is teaching your children to hate you, say: “As for me and my house (i.e., my family), we will serve the Lord.” Devil get lost. You are a liar and the father of lies!” (Joshua 24:15, John 8:44)
When the devil fills your mind with fear, you tell him, “God hasn’t given me a spirit of fear but of power, love and a sound mind. No weapon formed against me will prosper. Jesus tells me not to fear my enemies, but to love them and pray for them. I will do what His Word tells me to do. Devil get lost. I am not listening to your lies.” (2 Timothy 1:7, Isaiah 54:17)
When you feel sickness coming on you, declare what God’s Word says. The devil is trying to give me a sore throat this morning. But Your Word Lord tells me that “By your stripes I am healed. I will repeat that scripture this morning until I am healed. Your Word never returns void but will accomplish what You have sent it to do.” (Isaiah 53:5 KJV, Isaiah 55:11)
I am not saying that you can’t or shouldn’t use doctors. But as you become a stronger believer and more proficient in wielding God’s Word, it will become your medicine and you will see it work! (Proverbs 4:23)
God has the Answer
Whatever the problem is, God has the answer. It’s all in His Word. Start feeding yourself with spiritual food. God doesn’t want you to stay a baby Christian. He wants you to become a General in His army – a spiritual giant – an evangelist here in prison and when you get out. He wants you to have all of His gifts – praying in tongues, laying hands on the sick, casting out devils.
But you have to start by seeking Him, by learning His Word. What a journey it is and it won’t end until we get to heaven. Let’s get started!
DLH – May 24, 1995
Shirley, MA, Medium Security Prison