24/12/2019 - BE CAREFUL IN THE DESERT

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But lusted exceedingly in the wilderness, And tested God in the desert. Psalm 106:14

One of the most dangerous evil ties is the unreasonable desire to possess something: material goods, position of authority, food, or someone in life beyond the spouse. Thus ambition arises, and once bound to it, you will spare no effort for your soul to be fulfilled. No doubt every sin is an evil deed, and countless people fall into this trap of Hell.

When someone finds himself in a “desert,” despite being surrounded by those who truly love him, such as a spouse, children, and other family members, the devil comes and says he is lacking something. At this time, those who do not believe in Jesus, instead of rebuking the tempter, consider the offer: they look at the people who look beautiful, perfect, and in some cases as sent from God to give them happiness. Then the inevitable happens. Watch and pray!

In the wilderness, the Israelites did not lack water, because God had done the following work in them: if they resisted temptation, they would never need it. But as they sinned, they realized the absence of water. The Israelites were reprogrammed to act differently from other peoples. The Lord made their shoes last and equipped them for life in the wilderness, the worst place to dwell (Deuteronomy 29:5). Just as it happened with them, God has prepared us for this time!

Whoever is seduced by greed opens the door to the worst demons. Because of this, they will succumb to the evil offerings. If David had gone to war, he would not have seen Bathsheba bathing. If he had gone back into the house after he saw her, he would not have coveted her (2 Samuel 11: 1-4). Why look to whom the Most High did not give you? Your spouse is the ideal person to live with you until your last day here on Earth, for both are one flesh (Mark 10:8)!

The person who listened to the evil one has sinned in his spirit and, without repentance, will have a troubled life. Stay alert! As you feel evil approaching, rebuke it and seek God’s forgiveness. Remember that a little leaven leavens the whole lump (Galatians 5: 9). He who is foolish eats from the bad leaven and soon tastes the worst things. Get rid of evil now!

Apart from Jacob’s sons being driven by greed, they saw no wrongdoing in tempting the Lord. However, God cannot be tempted by evil and He tempts no one (James 1:13b). Seek to live in communion with the Most High, who is holiness, a Consuming Fire. If you break your covenant with Him, it is at your own risk. You will suffer many evils.

Examine yourself and see when the problems in your life began. Then repent of your evil deeds and convert, turning your back on wrong practices and seeking the Lord with all your heart. At some point you will feel that your sin has been forgiven. Then, filled with the Holy Spirit, you will be a blessing.

In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares