How can we identify and resist influences contrary to God's commandments? Verse in Focus “the gods of the peoples around you—whether near or far, whether from one end of the earth or the other—” (Deuteronomy 13:7) Recognizing Contrary Influences - They can come “near or far,” so watch both close relationships and distant cultural voices. - They invite worship of anything but the LORD—success, pleasure, ideology, self. - They often sound reasonable or loving, but subtly pull attention from God’s commands (cf. Deuteronomy 13:6). - They promise gain yet ignore obedience (cf. Genesis 3:5; 2 Peter 2:19). Why They Are Persuasive - Familiarity: a brother, spouse, or friend may be the messenger (Deuteronomy 13:6). - Ubiquity: idols saturate media, education, and entertainment; they feel normal (Psalm 115:4–8). - Appeal to desires: pride, comfort, or fear of missing out (James 1:14–15). - Counterfeit spiritual power: “false prophets” with signs (Deuteronomy 13:1–3; 2 Thessalonians 2:9). Strategies for Resistance - Anchor in Scripture • Daily reading and memorization; the Word exposes lies (Hebrews 4:12). - Hold Fast to the LORD (Deuteronomy 13:4) • Cultivate intimacy through worship, fellowship, and obedience. - Test Every Message (1 John 4:1) • Ask: Does this glorify Christ alone? Does it align with clear commands? - Guard Input • Filter media, conversations, and influences that normalize sin (Proverbs 4:23). - Put On the Armor (Ephesians 6:11–18) • Truth, righteousness, faith, salvation, the Word, and prayer fortify against schemes. - Choose God-Honoring Community • Walk with believers who spur obedience (Hebrews 10:24–25). - Take Decisive Action • Remove or distance yourself from persistent enticements (Matthew 5:29–30). - Replace, Don’t Just Remove • Fill the vacated space with service, worship, and God-centered pursuits (Romans 12:2). Living in Consistent Obedience - Consistency, not perfection, is the aim; repent quickly when you slip (1 John 1:9). - Loyalty to the LORD brings blessing and witness to others (Deuteronomy 28:1-2; Matthew 5:16). - The Spirit empowers what the flesh never could (Galatians 5:16-17). |
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