But I am afraid that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent’s cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ.  2 Corinthians 11:3

Adam and Eve had it all: a beautiful home, endless food and a great relationship with God. They had all of this with just one rule. For their protection, God commanded them to stay away from a certain tree. Paradise was theirs and they had God’s protection as long as they submitted to God’s authority.  But then Satan entered the picture in the form of a snake. Eve knew it was wrong to eat the fruit. But as the serpent talked, she started to look at things differently. She bought into the serpent’s lies and she began to desire the power he promised her.  The results were devastating. The life she had with Adam was destroyed. And when they stepped out from under God’s umbrella of authority, they also lost God’s protection.  Eve’s deception and rebellion started with her conversation with the serpent. And the same thing is true of us. We know what God desires for us, but we start listening to the subtle voice of the world or the wrong “friends.” And as we begin to justify our desires, we’re led further away from God’s truth.  We all struggle with temptation. And there are many things that at first seem enticing to our eyes. But instead, make sure God is the one who you choose to delight in. Because when you’re under His truthful guidance, you’re also under His authority and protection. And when you’re properly placed in God’s chain of command, no one will be able to lead you astray. 

Dear God, I know that the pull of the world can be so strong. And it is so easy to get off track without even noticing sometimes. Please help me to identify the deception that goes on around me, so I can stand strong in my devotion to You. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.