Steal, Kill and Destroy - Part 3
Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | May 29, 2024 | John 10:7-21
KEY VERSE:
The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill and to destroy. John 10:10a (NKJV)
MESSAGE:
What Does the Devil come to Kill?
Jesus warns that the devil comes to kill, which highlights the enemy's desire to bring death and destruction into our lives. One primary target of this murderous intent is our spiritual vitality. The devil seeks to sever our relationship with God, cutting off the life-giving connection that sustains our faith. By fostering sin, guilt, and shame, the enemy tries to lead us away from God's grace, causing our spiritual life to wither and die. When we allow sin to dominate, it can create a barrier between us and God, making us feel unworthy and disconnected from His love and mercy.
Another aspect of our lives that the devil aims to kill is our hope. Hope is a vital component of our Christian faith, anchoring us in the promises of God and the expectation of His goodness and faithfulness. The devil attempts to kill our hope by flooding our lives with despair, discouragement, and hopelessness. Through trials, setbacks, and prolonged suffering, the enemy tries to convince us that there is no future, no solution, and no redemption. When hope dies, we become spiritually paralysed, unable to move forward in faith or trust in God's plan for our lives.
The devil also seeks to kill our relationships, which are crucial for our spiritual and emotional well-being. Healthy relationships, built on love, trust, and mutual respect, reflect God's design for human interaction and community. The enemy tries to destroy these connections by sowing seeds of discord, misunderstanding, and bitterness. He uses conflict, betrayal, and unforgiveness to fracture relationships, leading to isolation and brokenness. When relationships die, we lose the support and encouragement from being part of a loving community, making it harder to live out our faith and experience the fullness of life that God intends.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Take proactive steps to build an effective and consistent prayer life. Be intentional about reliance on God's Word, and be in communion with believers of the Christian faith for support. Resist the enemy's attacks and maintain the spiritual strength, hope, and relational health essential for a thriving Christian life. Stay vigilant and rooted in Christ.
PRAYER:
Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for teaching me how to resist the devil by the Word. Please help me to follow you diligently and more intimately. Thank you that all that must be realigned in me is falling into place. You died for me, help me to live for you. For your dear name’s sake. Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
DAILY word study: KILL
The Greek word for "kill" is "θῇ" (thē), derived from "θύω" (thyō), which means to sacrifice or slaughter. This implies more than just ending physical life; it denotes a deliberate and often ritualistic act of taking life, symbolizing the thief’s intent to completely ruin and annihilate. In the context of John 10:10, the term "kill" highlights the destructive nature of false teachers and the devil, who seek to spiritually and physically harm the followers of Christ. Unlike the thief, who aims to cause harm and loss, Jesus offers an abundant life. This passage emphasizes the stark contrast between the destructive intentions of evil and the life-giving mission of Jesus. Reflections:
Consider the influences in your life that might lead to spiritual harm. What steps can you take to protect yourself from such dangers and embrace the abundant life Jesus offers?
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