YOUR PEACE IS FULLY PAID FOR-WHY LIVING IN CRISIS?

Christian Treasure Devotion

Your Peace is Fully Paid For—So Why Live in Crisis?

Anchor Scripture:** Psalm 34:8 NIV: “Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.”

Recently, I engaged in a conversation about gangsterism and cult-related activities, discussing how they are destroying the lives of young people. Perspectives on the issue varied, particularly regarding its causes and how it is managed in different parts of the world.

One comment struck me deeply: a man said, “I don’t really see the benefit of cultism or engaging in gangsterism. Is it worth constantly looking over your shoulder to make sure you’re not being followed, or worrying about being shot or attacked by rival groups? Or having your loved ones targeted by vengeful enemies?” He directed this statement to no one in particular.

These questions prompted me to reflect on why someone would choose a life of fear, sorrow, depression, and early death over a life of peace. Engaging in such a shadowy existence means that once you enter this Satanic deception, you forfeit your true life. I am still trying to understand what compels someone to embrace this path, as it seems to lead to pain rather than strength.

As is often said, a life without Christ is a life in crisis. Why choose a life filled with crises? Why become the devil's advocate, promoting hell instead of heaven?

A CHILLING STORY TO LEARN FROM

Several years ago, I read a haunting story about gangsterism. A young man was brutally murdered right in front of his family—his mother and sister—because he belonged to a university group involved in rival killings. He participated in the death of a rival group's leader, and after finishing his last exam, he returned home, thinking he was a hero. In the midst of his family's celebration, the rival group showed up and killed him in front of them.

Jesus came to offer us a life of peace. He paid the ultimate price for our abundant life with His blood. Why willingly give such a life to the devil?

THE DEVIL'S STRATEGY

The devil is a master strategist. Nothing you gain from him comes without a cost. You can’t trade with him because he is a manipulative dealer. Any covenant you enter with him comes with hidden terms and conditions. If you choose to bank with him, expect hidden charges and tariffs. His deception knows no bounds. The Bible calls him the father of lies because truth is foreign to him. He knows he is bound for hell and aims to take as many souls with him as possible. So, why would you hand over your soul to him freely? Why reject the freedom that Christ offers in favor of a life of slavery? Satan's plan is to keep you in perpetual captivity.

OVERCOMING THE DEVIL'S STRATEGIES

James 4:7 says, “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” This scripture outlines the pathway to overcoming your adversary completely. It requires doing the will of God, which shields you from falling into the devil’s temptations. Even Jesus Himself faced temptation from the devil but resisted, and the devil fled. The only solution is to submit to God's Lordship, and the devil will run from you.

Our anchor scripture encourages us to taste the Lord and see how good He is. When we experience the Lord’s mercy, grace, and plans for us, we become less tempted to seek the devil's ways.

ASSIGNMENTS:Draw your assignments from Ephesians 6:11-18. Put on the whole armor of God so that you can resist his strategies at all times.

PRAYERS: Thank you, Father, for your words to me today. Lord, I ask for the strength and grace to stand against the devil's tactics and to submit to your will in Jesus' name. Amen.