Everything has its proper time (Ecclesiastes 3:1), but turning away from sin must happen the moment we recognize something is wrong. At that point, the bond with the devil is broken, and he no longer has power to operate in our lives to separate us from God (Isaiah 59:2). Those who delay abandoning their transgressions soon discover that the damage only increases. Even a small dose of poison is enough to destroy a life (Hebrews 10:26–31).

It is not wise to boast about being intelligent. At times, we believe certain decisions are good, only to realize later that they were even fatal. God warns us about the dangers that surround us and about people of evil character from whom we must distance ourselves. When you realize that a certain friendship may lead you into sin, stop and obey what the Holy Spirit is making clear to you.

The Israelites would take part in the battles against their enemies, but victory would come only from God; therefore, all glory had to be given to Him. Grateful people are guided well through life, but those who lack gratitude will continually stumble: For whoever has, to him more will be given; but whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him. (Mark 4:25). Seek to be grateful to the Lord, so that you will not lack further instruction from the Most High. He is our Friend!

Attributing the Lord’s interventions to our own ability to foresee evil and avoid it is both foolish and tragic. True righteousness operates only when we are blessed to receive divine warnings and respond in obedience to God. Our Chief Shepherd desires to keep helping us carry out His work in the best way, His way. Along with gratitude, we must remain closely connected to the Father so that we do not leave the door open to the cruel enemy. Believe and pray!

Wickedness prevents God’s blessing. Even someone who claims to be righteous but acts wickedly cannot be blessed, for wickedness is sin, and all sin separates those who practice it from the Creator. It is not enough for a person to say that they love the Lord; they must prove that it is true (John 14:21). Christians who neglect reading the Bible and disregard what it teaches soon discover that such attitudes close the doors of their lives to God’s protection.

David's life and family were ruined when he sinned against Uriah. The king's enemies spoke ill of him everywhere, and God's sentence was this: Now therefore, the sword shall never depart from your house, because you have despised Me, and have taken the wife of Uriah the Hittite to be your wife.  (2 Samuel 12:10). You may be tempted and on the verge of falling, but if you are sincere with the Lord and ask Him to help you get rid of the temptation, you will receive divine help.

Pay close attention to the Father’s instruction and stand firm in Him. The Most High will drive away your opponents and provide a way of escape from the temptation that is pushing you toward the edge of the precipice.

    In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares