ASKING FOR WISDOM IN A DECEPTIVE WORLD
January 9, 2025
TEXT”If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” – James 1:5 (KJV)
Beloved, navigating today’s deceptive world requires divine wisdom. Satan’s cunning tactics and Pharisaic traps threaten our faith, seeking to lead us astray.
Jesus, our ultimate example, faced temptation in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11). He relied solely on Scripture, effectively defeating Satan’s lies and misinterpretations. This demonstrates the importance of grounding our responses in biblical truth.
In Acts 16:16-18, Paul confronted a damsel with a spirit of divination. Her seemingly innocent words hid demonic intent, aiming to discredit Paul’s ministry. Recognizing the spiritual source, Paul commanded the spirit to leave.
To overcome deception, we must seek God’s wisdom through prayer (James 1:5). Studying Scripture equips us to counter Satan’s lies (Matthew 4:4-10). Testing spirits (1 John 4:1) and praying for discernment (Psalm 119:66) are essential.
Smooth talk and flattery can disguise malicious intent (Romans 16:18). False prophets and teachers deceive many (Matthew 24:11). Discerning motives (1 Samuel 16:7) and examining fruits (Matthew 7:20) help uncover deception.
Spiritual blindness, error, and bondage result from neglecting discernment. Conversely, wisdom protects from deception, ensuring daily victory over the devil’s antics, and enhancing spiritual growth.
SEARCHLIGHT
Spiritual discernment protects from deception.
PRAYER
Dear Lord, grant me a discerning heart in these perilous times.
BIBLE READING
Leviticus 25-27, Acts 3
PST. MICHAEL OMOLE
