Power for Today

Don't Give the Devil a Foothold

Ephesians 4 (NIV)
"But now you must rid yourself of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips." (Colossians 3:8, NIV)

One of the most enjoyable activities of my childhood years, spent in San Diego, was exploring the tidepools of La Jolla.

On one occasion, a couple of boys shouted with excitement and began feverishly reaching into a pool some distance away. The boys had found an octopus. They began trying to pull its tentacles from the rocks. Whenever they would pull one tentacle loose, other tentacles would latch onto another rock. Finally, enough people joined the effort to pull all the tentacles loose. However, by this time the tide was rising and the slippery mollusk managed to somehow escape their grasp.

In this instance, the octopus used its tentacles to escape. Sometimes it uses its tentacles to ensnare and consume its prey. One suction cup attached to its victim can spell death. Paul warns us not to give the devil a foothold. The insidious nature of sin, once embedded in our lives, can control us. We know the pain and destruction it brings to our souls. Today, be on guard. Pray for help to the Father from whom comes our strength to resist. Put on the full armor of God now. Don't give the devil a foothold.

Almighty God, help us to watch our lives this day and through Your power keep the slopes of our heart smooth and free from any footholds for our adversary, the devil. It is only through You, dear Lord, that we have the victory through the blood of Your Son and our Savior, Jesus Christ. In His name. Amen.
- MARK YOUNG, Norman, Oklahoma