Scripture: “Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.” – Romans 12:9
Examination: Paul describes how we should live as Christians. We are to be wholly dedicated to serving the Lord and other believers. He tells us that as children of God, the evil in this world will not overtake us, rather we will overcome the evil through living a godly lifestyle.
Application: Black cats, broken mirrors, the number 13… these are all considered “bad luck” symbols, especially today. Friday the 13th has long been considered a day filled with frightening omens and superstitions. In truth, evil doesn’t confine itself to one day of the year, and it’s not as harmless as the world would have us think.
The evilness of this world has forced its way into every aspect of our lives. Television, music, books, even our schools boldly present demonic themes as acceptable and even desired. Every aspect of our culture… our language, dress, behaviors, etc., no longer speaks in whispers about things that once were considered to be unspeakable. Satanic influences are everywhere and embraced by a world that has no idea that the powers of hell are focused on the destruction of all that is holy.
While allowing a black cat to cross your path or opening an umbrella inside the house is nothing to be fearful of, the reality of evil in this world is a very present demonic truth. The Bible speaks of a spiritual war that is constantly being waged around us between the powers of hell and the angelic army of God. The heavenly host fight to protect us against the forces of hell that constantly seek to destroy the souls of men. Ephesians 6:12 states, “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.”
In spite of the evil that surrounds, we need not fear. One of the most wonderful things about the Bible is it tells us the end of the story, and we know who wins. In truth, the victory was already won at the cross. Jesus’ holiness and sinlessness enabled Him to be the perfect sacrifice for our sins. The wickedness and evil that is inerrant in all of us was paid for with his precious blood once and for all. Then death and the grave could not hold him; Jesus rose victoriously to be the Saviour of the world.
Because of Jesus, we need not fear the evil in this world, but we also should not take it lightly nor should we embrace it. It needs to be exposed for what it is. Movies that glorify evil should not be viewed; video games that promote murder, anarchy, or insurrection should not be played; books that highlight demonic activity and create heroes and heroines that practice the dark arts should not be read. All of these things are part of Satan’s master plan to desensitize us to the evil and wickedness in this world. Choose movies, books, music, etc., that promote those values that God regards as good.
On this Friday the 13th, if you drop your mirror that shatters, don’t worry that you may suffer dire consequences. Instead, turn your eyes upon Jesus. His love has overcome evil; His love has overcome sin; His love has overcome Satan. Philippians 4:8 tells us the things that we should set our eyes upon. “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”
Chaos, fear, uncertainty, and hopelessness are the results of a life of wickedness and sin. Allow the power of God’s Word and His love to envelop you, guide you, and fill you with His perfect peace and rest. In John 16:33, Jesus said, “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” With His love, there is no need to fear anything in this world… ever.
Memory Verse: “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.” – 1 John 4:18
Be strong in the Lord, and be of good courage;
Your mighty Defender is always the same.
Mount up with wings, as the eagle ascending;
Victory is sure when you call on his name.
Be strong, be strong, be strong in the Lord,
And be of good courage for he is your guide.
Be strong, be strong, be strong in the Lord,
And rejoice for the victory is yours.
(from “Be Strong in the Lord” by Linda Lee Johnson)