“…and do not give the devil an opportunity.” (Ephesians 4:27 NASB)
This will a real Monday Short meditation! It’s been a while, right? Let me get to it. There have been several contemporary preachers who have taken their text and announce their sermon title that is based on an old saying. I’ll share the title I am alluding to in a minute, but I’ll tell you right now, Grandmother said it best.
I’m sure that these preachers spoke a word that worked on the minds of their listeners. I’m positive that their diligent work was pleasing to God. With that being said, I will share with you what a faithful sister, a dedicated member of our church said at one of our Bible Study classes last week, as we are continuing our study of The Book of Zephaniah. When she spoke, her words were influenced by our focal text, in the first chapter of Zephaniah, where God as He described His judgement on Judah. It was pointed out how the people of Judah had clothed themselves with foreign garments and how taking on their clothing was just a prelude to taking on the pagan’s principles and practices. Side note: We need to watch what we wear internally and externally in our times. We need to watch out how we emulate the ungodly, because before you know it, we will have unconsciously adopted their ways over the ways of God.
When this member heard the class discussion, she, the Assistant Pastor’s spouse spoke up. She shared some wisdom that her grandmother passed on to her, and it was just the same as the sermon title some of the contemporary preachers used as mentioned in the first paragraph. Here is what she shared, “Don’t let the devil ride, because he will want to drive.” Grandmother said it best! Grandmother said it succinctly! Grandmother said it simple, straightforward, short, seriously, and her words were surely impactful. Grandmother, with a life that had seen it all, said it best.
I think that we should keep Grandmother’s words in mind as we go through this week; every day of this week. And as you do, keep your hands on God’s steering will; not your will, not the world’s will, not Satan’s will, but God’s will! Like I just shared Grandmother’s words with you, you do likewise and share them with someone else! Say it clearly, “Don’t let the devil ride, because he will want to drive.” Be blessed!
“Submit therefore to God. But resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” (James 4:7 NASB)
Still committed to the climb,
Mark L. King