Defeating Your Demons

The word "evil" is a pretty strong word. When we hear it, we think of Adolf Hitler or Idi Amin or Pol Pot. We rarely, if ever, apply that word to ourselves, to our own thoughts and actions. And yet, perhaps we should. John Newton was an 18th-century English sailor who became a slave trader. And make no mistake … that slave trade was callous, brutal … evil. Yet, during a violent storm at sea, he cried out to God for mercy and ended up surviving. That experience sparked a spiritual transformation in him, leading him to abandon the slave trade and eventually become an Anglican priest of all things. From then on, Newton passionately opposed slavery and mentored William Wilberforce, a key figure in its abolition. He went on to write the hymn "Amazing Grace" out of his gratitude for God's mercy in saving a "wretch" like him. But to what extent, do you imagine, would he have experienced that radical transformation – the life-changing impact of God's love and mercy –  had he chosen to continue in the slave trade? Not at all, right? Because when you experience the love, the grace, the mercy, the forgiveness of God, it's meant to change you. Ephesians 4:31 Never be bitter, angry, or mad. Never shout angrily or say things to hurt others. Never do anything evil. The truth is that you can't defeat your demons if you're still enjoying their company. So … never be bitter, angry, or mad. Never shout angrily or say things to hurt others. Never do anything evil. That's God's Word. Fresh … for you … today.