Don't Take The Bait

In week 3 of our "HOOKED" series we're looking at how the enemy attempts to hook us. We're not the fishermen in this story... We're the fish. And just like the fish in the sea, we're swimming in waters where there is a real enemy and A LOT of lures, distractions, false fish, and HOOKS set out for the sole purpose of catching and keeping us from swimming toward what is good and true.1. Lures Target Your DesireSatan rarely comes at us with obvious evil. He's subtle. he uses bait that looks good, feel right, and seems harmless - but hides a deadly hook. In Genesis, Eve saw that "the fruit was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes." "She took of the fruit and ate." (Genesis 3:6). The Bible tells us in James 1:13-15: God does not tempt us toward evil, but each person is lured and enticed by his own desire."Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it fully grown brings forth death." 2. Lures Distract You1 Peter 5:8 - "Be sober-minded; be watchful." The enemy doesn't always attack outright, sometimes he distracts. If satan can't get you to jump into sin, he'll try to numb your spiritual hunger, dull your awareness, and keep you entertained and most importantly, ineffective. Romans 13:11 says "The hour has come for you to wake from sleep. For salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed." How many times have you hit snooze? All while the world is crying out for hope. The devil doesn't need to destroy you if he can distract you.3.We Remain Firm1 Peter 5:9 "Resist him, firm in your faith..." We don't fight the enemy with anger or fear. We fight with faith. Stay in the Word and know the truth so you can spot a lie. Stay in prayer and stay connected to the voice of the Spirit. Stay in community, isolation is the enemy's playground. Stay on mission. The most dangerous Christian to the enemy is the one who is advancing the Kingdom.Week 3 challenge: Identify and remove a lure of the enemy in your life.You were made to fish - not be caught. The devil has lures, but God gives light, truth and power. Stay alert. Stay awake. Stay firmly anchored in Christ. Don't take the bait, walk in truth.We love ya church!