Which Reality?

Illustrating a Truth of Discerning the Enemy

All scripture citations are from the English Standard Version (ESV) unless otherwise noted.

The Accuser would prefer for us to focus on what is wrong, rather than what is gloriously right. It is true that we fall and that we should seek to keep from falling. But God doesn't want us to beat ourselves up over the recurring reality of our fallenness! Instead, each time we fall, or even start to stumble, can be an occasion for rediscovering the wonder of His total forgiveness and regaining genuine humility through fresh recognition of our brokenness.  

Wouldn't it be fun to learn to let our failings springboard us into greater confidence in God's love rather than sink us into greater self-despair Which reality is capturing your heart? Cast down the Accuser: Grace rules!

And I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, "Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God." Revelation 12:10

For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. Ephesians 2:8-9

Prayer

Father, since we reap what we sow, help me truly repent of all the accusing thoughts I have cherished towards others and all of the hurtful, accusing words I have spoken. Grant that I would become an intercessor for, not an accuser of others. As I become more of a grace-giver who shows mercy to others, may Your mercy capture my heart even where my own sins and sinfulness are concerned. Teach me how to "look up" and let even my failings springboard me into greater joy in Your salvation. Help me gain the grace-based confidence that You are loving me—especially in my times of brokenness, weakness and failure. Save me from being stuck on the sight of my failings, rather than being captured by the vision of Your mercy! 

Next Illustrated Truth

Your Choice of Coverings
Illustrating the choice we always have to live under guilt and shame or God's "umbrella" of mercy.