“He who is not with me is against me, and he who does not gather with me scatters.” (Jesus speaking).
Matthew 12:30 (NIV)
Recently I recalled an old episode of “Touched by an Angel.” In this particular show, after a terrible tragedy, the angel Monica (one of the main characters in the show) goes off into the desert to be by herself. There she is approached by the devil.
The devil does not appear as some red creature with horns and a pitchfork breathing threats. Instead the devil drives up in a sleek shiny attractive car and offers Monica a ride.
He is cordial, articulate, and well-dressed. He has the distinctive air of success.
He does not deny who he is but says, “Monica, I am not the enemy. I am the alternative.”
It may just have been a TV show, but so often art imtitates life.
The devil comes to us often when we are alone and vulnerable. He makes attractive offers, or so they seem at the time. He did it to Jesus in the Bible. (Check out the books of Matthew or Luke. (Chapter 4 in each book).
The devil does not usually appear as our enemy, but rather he offers himself or another way as an alternative.
How often have we heard the words “Alternative Lifestyle” for things or ways that are an abomination before the Lord?
The enemy (yes, he is the enemy) tries to ensnare us with attractive offers. Sin may seem pleasurable… for a season (Hebrews 11:25).
The devil attempts to convince us that our ungodly actions are justified, often not wrong… just different.
God’s Word is quite clear. These “alternatives” always lead to death.
If we are unclear about something we need only to ask ourselves, “is this FOR Jesus? Is this FOR the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob?” If it is not, then it is against Him.
Do not let anyone deceive you. That’s the Truth, and there are no alternatives.