What precautions can Christians take to guard against Satan's influence, as seen in Luke 22:3? Seeing the Danger in Luke 22:3 “Then Satan entered Judas Iscariot, who was one of the Twelve.” (Luke 22:3) Judas saw every miracle, heard every sermon, and still became a doorway for the enemy. His story warns that proximity to spiritual activity is no substitute for a guarded, surrendered heart. A Heart Left Open: Why Judas Became Vulnerable • Persistent, unconfessed sin (John 12:4-6) • Love of money crowding out love for Christ (1 Timothy 6:10) • Secret isolation while remaining outwardly involved (Psalm 66:18) Practical Safeguards Against Satan’s Schemes • Guard the heart daily – “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” (Proverbs 4:23) • Refuse footholds – “Do not give the devil a foothold.” (Ephesians 4:27) • Stay alert and sober-minded – “Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion.” (1 Peter 5:8) Walking in Daily Readiness 1. Put on the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18) 2. Pray, “Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.” (Matthew 6:13) 3. Fill the mind with Scripture; speak it aloud when tempted (Psalm 119:11; Matthew 4:1-11) 4. Confess sin immediately—keep no secret places (1 John 1:9) Courage to Stand in Community • Invite accountability (Hebrews 3:13) • Worship and fellowship regularly (Acts 2:42-47) • Encourage one another to persevere in faith (Hebrews 10:24-25) Strengthening Faith Through Obedience • Practice generosity to break greed’s chain (2 Corinthians 9:6-8) • Serve others instead of self (Mark 10:45) • Walk by the Spirit, not the flesh (Galatians 5:16) By guarding the heart, living transparently, and standing fully equipped in Christ, believers can close every door Judas left ajar and walk in confident freedom from Satan’s influence. |
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