Deflect or Correct

Read

Revelation 12:10, "For the accuser (devil) of our brothers and sisters, who accuses them before our God day and night, has been hurled down."

Think

Did you know that the Devil was the very first worship leader? Yes, you read that right! Scripture tells us that he was one of the most beautiful beings ever created (Ezekiel 28:17). His job in Heaven was to lead the other angels in praise and worship to God.Trouble in paradise came when the Devil (known then as Lucifer), tried to usurp God and capture that praise for himself. He was filled with pride. Not only did he show major rebellion and authority issues, but he eventually was kicked out of heaven and took a third of the angels with him, causing division!Revelation 12:10 tells us that, to this day, the Devil is in the business of seeking power, rebellion, and division. In fact, he uses deflection to keep us from taking responsibility in our everyday lives. It’s the idea of blaming someone or something else to justify my behavior. “I am the way I am because my diapers were put on too tight as a child.” “I didn’t do well in that class because the teacher was just so boring.” “If it wasn’t for my boss, I’d be promoted by now.” We know we are dealing with pride and major authority issues when we begin turning the mirror on others instead of ourselves.What sets us apart as followers of Christ is that we are called to take responsibility for our actions and know that our God, full of love and grace, is there to forgive us. It doesn’t mean that consequences won’t come, but that we are no longer defined by our sin.Proverbs 28:13 says, “Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy.”Whatever we cover, God will uncover. But whatever we uncover, God will cover.

Act

What is something that you know you need to own up to and take responsibility for today? Maybe you’ve never asked for forgiveness in regard to a situation because you didn’t want to admit you were wrong. Maybe you’ve never asked for help in your finances, but instead blamed people and circumstances. Make today the day that you take responsibility and move forward. Make the call. Plan the meeting.

Pray

Dear God, Thank You for reminding me that You are full of love and grace, but You are also just. You desire for me to live my life to the fullest, but I can’t do that when I constantly deflecting responsibility. Help me to be less defensive when I’m in the wrong and more open to correction. Amen.