THE DEVIL WANTS YOU ALONE

By Stephen Lane

One of the most detrimental beliefs to the Christian is the thought that “I don’t need anyone; I got this”. This happens often right when we come back from weekends like what we just had—where we experienced the presence of the Lord through worship like never before, when we’ve spent time getting to know each other and chosen to be vulnerable and transparent in our small groups. It’s weekends like these—Winter Chills and Summer Burns—that the devil hates. He hates them because he doesn’t like when we’re involved in community; he wants us alone… because when we’re alone, we are the most vulnerable to him and his schemes.

The Bible often refers to us as sheep. So think about a sheep being all alone in a field.  Not the best idea, right? That sheep would end up being a good dinner for a wolf or any other predator that might be out there. BUT, if that same sheep were to be surrounded by 10 other sheep, the wolf wouldn’t have an opportunity to just pounce on the one sheep; he would have to mess with all 10 of them. Common sense tells us that two is better than one, and 10 are definitely better than two.

The same goes for us as Christians. When we isolate ourselves and try to live the Christian life alone, we are prey for the enemy. It leaves a space open for the devil to get a foothold, which before you know it, will soon be a stronghold. It’s important to have people to constantly surround you and hold you accountable. Everyone needs someone in their life that will encourage and build you up.

I challenge you to not let the fire that is burning inside of you from Winter Chill go out—  purposefully go out of your way and open yourself up to going to Underground, seek out people who will make you better, and welcome accountability. We have to constantly be throwing wood on our fire to keep it from going out. So throw the wood!!

READ 1 PETER 5:8