Luke shares a story in Acts of Paul being followed by a slave girl who had a “spirit of divination.” She would shout out, declaring that Paul and his group were “servants of the Most High God” (Acts 16:16-17). What she declared about Paul’s group was true, but it was the enemy causing her to do it. Paul allowed her disturbing behavior for several days but finally had enough of it.
“But Paul, greatly annoyed, turned and said to the spirit, ‘I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her.’ And he came out that very hour” (Acts 16:18).
We all have allowed harmful things in our lives for too long. Reticence about speaking out and doing something about a damaging thing or situation can hinder what God wants us to do. We can become so accustomed to the enemy’s attacks that we don’t address them.
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Four years ago, accepting a lie of the enemy came to a screeching halt. I finally had enough. I finally recognized sickness and the pain and fear I allowed as the enemy’s distraction, annoyance, and temptation. Yes, God's peace does provide strength, but acceptance and resignation do not. Sometimes, you need to acknowledge the thief who is out to destroy you and fight the good fight of faith.
“Therefore, submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you” (James 4:7.)
You resist the enemy’s lies when you submit to God’s truth. “By His stripes, you were healed (1 Peter 2:24). When you’ve had enough of sickness, submit to God’s truth. Believe it. Resist the devil, and he will flee. When you’ve had enough of a defeated life, submit to God, resist the devil, and he will flee. Speak against the enemy who comes to destroy you, and say “yes” to God’s healing and “yes” to His abundant life.
We have the same resurrection power as Paul did (Ephesians 1:19-21). Paul finally had enough of this evil spirit tempting him and distracting him from living his purpose. What distraction, annoyance, or temptation is coming against you? If Paul could be annoyed and speak to the enemy, you can, too.
“Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit” (Proverbs 18:21).
Don’t give place to the devil (Ephesians 4:27). You will become resigned to his lies, accept their untruth, and not fight. You will come to love those lies, and they will become who you are. Give place to God. Give place to His truth. Accept His truth as your own. Speak His promises. You will love them, and they will become who you are.
How tired are you? Are you determined to fight the good fight of faith? Are you ready to confess the good promises of God (1 Timothy 6:12)? Don’t grow weary. In due season, you shall reap if you do not lose heart (Galatians 6:9).
“For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us” (2 Corinthians 1:20).
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