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SATAN'S DEVICES
The Christian ought never to be ignorant of “the devil’s devices,” or as the
NASV has it, his “schemes” (2 Cor.
). We need to know certain things about those schemes.
First, they are many and varied. If the devil cannot gain control of your life one way, he will try it by another and it seems that he never runs out of ways to tempt the Christian. Then, they are crafty and skilful. Make no mistake about it – the devil is good at what he does! He is a master at deception, making that appear good when in reality it is wicked. Here is why we need to be alert, always examining claims anyone may make concerning religious or moral matters. Third, his schemes are impartial. He is not going to tempt your neighbor and leave you alone! He does not care who he tempts so long as he can do it. Those devices are especially dangerous to the unwary. He is an “ambush expert,” and that is clearly seen in Peter’s description of him – a “roaring lion,” walking about seeking whom he may devour (1 Pet. 5:8). But – there is a defense! But no defense is effective unless it is put in place and run properly – ask any football coach! Your defense against the schemes of Satan begins with prayer; ask God to help you overcome his devices. Then watchfulness and diligence must be practiced every day. And so when it comes to Satan’s devices, be careful, for you are not exempt! – Bill Moseley THE PILLOW EXPERT
I have met all sorts of “experts” in my time, but I must confess I had never
met a “pillow expert” until recently. She knew all about the philosophy of pillows
and I wonder how I ever slept on one without listening to a “pillow expert.” Willie
decided I needed a new pillow; can’t imagine why, but I think Noah used mine on
the ark.
Anyway, in the store looking for a pillow; had a bunch of them and since Willie is “vertically impaired,” told me to get one she could see up on the shelf. I took it down, when up walked a lady who turned out to be the “pillow expert.” She looked at me and said, “is that pillow down?” “Well,” I said, “it is now; a minute ago it was up on that shelf.” I soon found out she meant “’down” down, not “down” as opposed to “up.” Then she set in to explain all the virtues of down pillows. Dumb me, and I thought all the while a pillow was a pillow. After wandering around the store for awhile, ran into the “pillow expert” again and sure enough, she had found her “down pillow,” and went into her long dissertation again as to why down pillows were better than others. I sort of felt second class because my pillow was only part down, and the rest of it feathers. She looked at me like she felt sort of sorry for me. Well, I may not be an expert on anything, certainly not pillows. I have always said I had rather know a little about a lot of things than everything about one thing – and don’t even know if I’ve done that. One thing is sure though – I plan on sleeping good. – Bill |