Thursday, November 11

Watch Out for Rattlers

Resist the devil and he will flee from you.
James 4:7

Doctors in Phoenix have warned that rattlesnakes thought to be dead can still strike and kill. A number of patients suffer bites from rattlers thought to be dead. The snake's mouth retains a reflex action and can still make striking-type motions sixty minutes after decapitation.

Satan, "that old serpent," was beheaded at Calvary, but he can still strike at us. He can tempt us, poison our relationships, and spread his deadly venom. He tries to trap us in difficulty and lure us into temptation. If you're in a tough spot now, the devil is undoubtedly behind it to some degree.

The blood of Christ forgives our sins and resolves our guilt. His resurrection frees us from death and satisfies our need for eternal significance and happiness. His presence surrounds us, while the promises of the Bible sustain us. Jesus said, "Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed" (John 8:36).

Acknowledge Satan's activity, but don't be intimidated by him. We can resist him in the power of God and by the blood of Jesus Christ.

The devil has at least one good quality, that he will flee if we resist him. Though cowardly in him, it is safety for us.
Tyron Edwards, American theologian

Read-Thru-the-Bible
1 Corinthians 2:1-6:20