This week’s devotions are based on Week 7 of Building Together: “Will it stand?” (WATCH HERE)
John 8:31–32 To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. 32 Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
Truth is always the answer to lies, but sometimes the lies sound pretty similar to the truth. Satan loves to couch his deception in the context of truth. He does not always tempt us by making evil look obviously wrong. Sometimes he makes a lie sound reasonable, a compromise seem harmless, or God’s commands appear outdated. His goal is to weaken our trust in God’s Word until we begin to rely on our own judgment instead. That is why Paul warns us in Ephesians 6:11 to stand against “the schemes of the devil.”
We see this strategy in the Garden of Eden. The serpent began by questioning God’s Word: “Did God actually say…?” (Genesis 3:1). That question planted doubt about God’s goodness and truthfulness. The same temptation continues today. We may hear that God’s Word cannot be trusted, that sin is simply a matter of personal preference, or that we can determine right and wrong for ourselves. Even within the Church, we can be tempted to adjust God’s truth to fit our preferences rather than allowing His Word to shape our lives.
Jesus shows us how to stand firm. When Satan tempted Him in the wilderness, Jesus answered with Scripture. He did not negotiate with the devil or decide for Himself what was right. He trusted His Father’s Word. Jesus remained faithful where we have often failed, and He did so for our salvation.
Remaining in the teachings of Jesus is the key to overcoming the deception of Satan. This weekend as we mark the anniversary of the Lutheran Reformation, we are reminded that Martin Luther’s stand during the Reformation reflected his conviction that the Word of God was always the measure of truth. His confidence rested not in his own wisdom or courage, but in the authority of God’s Word. As Christians, we are called to test our thoughts, beliefs, and practices against Scripture. Yet we must remember that God’s Word is what exposes the lies of Satan and returns us to the truth.
The great blessing of exposing the lies of Satan and standing firm in the teachings of Jesus? Freedom! Not freedom to do what our sinful nature desires, but freedom to walk in the steps of Jesus. Freedom to love as we have been loved. Freedom to not be deceived. Freedom to let God’s truth guide our life. Freedom to live with the confidence that heaven is our home. Freedom to know we are forgiven. Freedom to trust Jesus as our Savior.
When doubts arise or the world challenges your faith, return to God’s promises. Read His Word, remember your Baptism, and receive the comfort of the Gospel. God’s truth does not change. In Christ, we have a sure foundation on which to stand.
Reflect: What message or belief is tempting me to question God’s Word, and what promise of Scripture can help me stand firm?
Prayer: Heavenly Father, keep me steadfast in Your Word. Protect me from the devil’s lies and from the pride that makes me trust my own judgment above Your truth. Thank You for Jesus, who remained faithful for me and has given me forgiveness and life. Strengthen my faith through Your promises and help me confess Your truth with humility and love. In Jesus’ name. Amen.