October 4, 2024 Devo

I once had a friend who called me about a man who was acting in a less-than-Christian manner. Because the man was a Christian leader, he was confused. As we talked, I listed for him what Paul describes as the “fruit of the Spirit” in Galatians 5. After giving him the list, I said, “Are these the attributes that this man displays?” My friend replied, “No, not at all!” I said, “Well, there you are. It doesn’t sound as if he’s displaying much of the character of God, so it doesn’t matter what kind of position he has. There’s a difference between being ‘godly’ and being ‘religious.’” My friend thought for a second and then said, “But he is always quoting scripture!” I laughed and said, “That doesn’t really mean anything. Even the Devil quotes scripture!”
You caught that today, didn’t you? The Devil slyly tries to manipulate Jesus by quoting a passage to Him to prove his point. But just because the scripture is a real scripture it doesn’t mean it’s an applicable truth for that situation. It’s called “scripture twisting.” People often quote the “eye for eye” passage to justify getting even with someone, conveniently bypassing Jesus’ commands to “Love your enemy” and “Turn the other cheek.” Other people use scripture to manipulate or control others. Phrases like “Wives, be submissive,” “Children, be obedient,” and “Think of others as better than yourself,” get used to guilt people into doing what we want. The Bible becomes a weapon rather than the endearing Word of God.
So, be aware. When you hear a scripture in your head that is shaming, condemning, or one that justifies you doing something that you can’t imagine Jesus doing, give yourself some time to think it through. Or when someone is quoting scripture at you, but it doesn’t seem to be coming from a heart of love and concern, take a step back. Scripture can be a powerful force that God uses to shape and make our lives. But it can also be used for evil. Just because someone quotes a scripture, it doesn’t mean it’s of God. The Devil knows scripture, too. That’s God’s Word for you today.