THE STORY OF JESUS: John 13:18-30
“As soon as Judas took the bread, Satan entered into him.” (John 13:27)
Judas has been struggling; should he stick wtih this lame messiah?
The Pharisees have approached him: betray Jesus for gold.
Judas is conflicted, until Jesus acts like a lowly servant, washing their feet.
He is supposed to be a mighty warrior, not a lame door mat.
Then Jesus all but calls him out, speaking about a betrayer in their midst.
Satan takes this opportunity to push Judas as hard as he can.
All the reasons to leave Jesus flood through Judas’ mind.
And his defences crumble, he gives in to Satan’s lies.
He opens his heart to his negative thinking, and Satan steps in.
Jesus wants to be Lord in our hearts, but Satan does too.
Where are Satan’s negative thoughts weakening my defenses?
Satan wants to bring me down, am I aware of his schemes?
“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion
looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm.” (1 Peter 5:8-9)
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, remind us how the enemy works, not to frighten us but to equip us. Remind us that as long as You are in us, Satan cannot be.
Following Jesus.
Peter was the impulsive one yet his loyalty to Christ Jesus was there.
Judas was the calculating one doing his own self interests.
One accepted the Lord and the other accepted Satan’s desires.
If we/I but walk in His way He will give us the Spirit that we/I will have the strength to overcome when I am tested by Satan. I need to walk in His Light and Truth each day, following my Lord and Saviour.
When we walk with the Lord
In the light of His Word,
What a glory He sheds on our way;
While we do His good will,
He abides with us still,
And with all who will trust and obey.
Trust and obey,
For there’s no other way
To be happy in Jesus,
But to trust and obey.