"When Pharaoh observed the Israelites' thoughts turning back to God, he knew it was a dangerous sign. He supposed he could hinder their spiritual deliverance by increasing their physical bondage, so he intensified their workload. Satan does the same with his slaves, keeping them too busy to think of heaven or hell. He never leaves them, always working to intercept any thoughts of grace, mercy, peace, or repentance sent by the Holy Spirit.
Satan interferes with God's messengers. When God sent Moses to deliver Israel, Satan sent Jannes and Jambres to resist Exodus 7:11, 2 Timothy 3:8. When Paul preached truth to the deputy, Elymas countered with Acts 13:8.. Satan has spies on every corner, watching the activities of the saints. When God sends His children on an errand of mercy to a sinner, these spies race to beat them and block their way.
Sinner, be especially wary of carnal friends and relatives when you decide to follow Christ. Resolve that if your own children grab you by the ankles and try to hold you back from Him, you will drive them away. And if your father and mother throw themselves in front of you, you will step over their backs if you must, to get to Christ. Let those who will, mock and scorn your faith. What is heaven worth if you cannot bear a little shame? If they spit on your face, Christ will wipe it off. They may laugh at you now, but not later. The final outcome has already been declared, and you have sided with the victor.
Satan distracts sinners with delays. He does not fear fleeting thoughts of repentance. I doubt there are many in hell who did not at one time or another give some thought to repenting, but Satan was always able to carry them away on some more urgent business. Sinner, if you ever hope to escape, run for your life-- away from Satan, away from your lusts, away from your present joys if they are the handiwork of Satan. The devil says, "Tomorrow." God says "Today." Whom will you obey?"
Our heart must be set on obedience to God through Jesus Christ. When we are it is easier to say YES to God!
Quoted material from, ”The Christian in Complete Armour Daily Readings in Spiritual Warfare” by Gurnall and James S Bell. http://www.moodypublishers.com/pub_productDetail.aspx?id=41823&pid=53617
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