Engaging Our Culture: May 4-When Others Bring Out the Devil in You

Video of the Day: Clip from the 1989 movie “Terms of Endearment”

Bible Verse of the Day:

For I know that good itself does not dwell in me, that is, in my sinful nature.[c] For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. 19 For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing., Romans 7:18-19.

Biblical Connection:

Star Wars introduced the concept of the force and the dark side to many Americans. Instead of inserting of clip from this movie franchise, I opted for a shorter scene that human beings can relate to. There are certain individuals that bring out the worst in you. This could be due to a personality clash or power struggle for control. Whatever the reason, when someone knows what buttons to push, you end up losing control and your sinful nature acts out.

The apostle Paul writes about a thorn in his flesh to the Church in Corinth, 2 Corinthians 12:7. Paul isn’t clear if this was a medical condition, nagging injury, or demonic oppression. Yet, in a letter to the Church at Rome, Paul becomes vulnerable, sharing what happens to him when the sinful nature begins to take over his life. This is spiritual darkness, when a lack of self-control results in evil and devilish acts. Paul comes to the conclusion that only Jesus can rescue him from this condition.

Closing Song:

The next time you find yourself about to lose it, cry out to Jesus before the sinful nature takes control of your body. Although you may not win every battle, allow the Devil to get the best of you, success is a process of praying for repentance and mercy to do better tomorrow and beyond.

by Jay Mankus

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