Dear Readers,

Enjoy this previously posted devotional as we begin this year’s study of “Living By His Example.”

“You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:32 HCSB

Don’t Buy Satan’s Lies, Accept Christ’s Free Truths

Two things I have learned about Satan’s lies over the years: they cost more than he says they will and they’re worth far less than he says they are.

When I was 11 years old, I went to a tent revival in our small town and the Lord lit a fire in me. He touched a part of my soul that I never knew existed. Not long after, and not coincidentally, Satan paid me a visit one dark night and told me a lie that I bought. The lie was that I could have prevented some negative events that had happened in my life and therefore they were my fault. 

I spent the next 12+ years trying to self-destruct, in a multitude of ways, to make amends for the guilt lie I had bought. Until finally, on another, even darker, night I accepted Christ’s truth: “I came to save you. I love you. You’ve punished yourself enough”. “He reaches down from heaven and saves me, challenging the one who tramples me. Selah. God sends His faithful love and truth” (Psalm 57:3 HCSB). With the acceptance of that free truth I allowed Christ to turn my life around. I surrendered to truth and love. It literally saved my life.

Some of the differences in the two visitors:

Satan is the father of lies. (John 8:44)  Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life (John 14:6a).

Satan demands a high price.  Christ paid the ultimate price (John 15:13).

Satan seeks to destroy and kill. Christ brings life and abundant life (John 10:10).

Satan’s wages of sin is death. Christ’s free gift is eternal life (Romans 6:23).

Satan’s lies:  

You’re no good.
If they knew who you really are, they wouldn’t have anything to do with you.
God can’t use you after the things you have done.
God won’t ever forgive that.

Christ’s truths:

To the thief next to Him on Calvary: “I tell you the truth, this day you will be with Me in paradise” (Luke 23:43).

To the Samaritan leper, an outcast: “Arise, go your way—your faith has made you well” (Luke 17:11-19).

To the woman caught in the act of adultery: “Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more” (John 8:3-11).

Here’s the deal though—free will. It’s our choice: Do we buy the lies or accept the free truth?

“Dear Jesus, help us to remember that Your free truths were bought with a high price—Your death. Through Your Word and by Your Holy Spirit help us not to buy the lies of the enemy, but to accept the free truths that You have already paid for. Help us to discern the difference. Amen.”