The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. (John 10:10, ESV)
There’s a golf course in Algarve, Portugal, with a Par three called the “Devil’s Parlor.” I managed to par that hole, but not the first time. It’s on the top of a red stone cliff that plunges 200 feet to the beach.
This awesome yet scary natural formation separates the tee and the hole by 123 meters. For me, it was very intimidating when I first laid eyes on it. Of course, the name didn’t help.
I kept thinking about that name and picturing a parlor in my head. After many years in the interior design industry, I couldn’t help but think of the old reception room at the house entrance where you would welcome guests and converse with them.
When was the last sermon you heard on the devil? No one comes to church hoping to hear bad news, but the good news isn’t good unless you hear the bad news first, right?
Many scriptures have bad news/good news teachings. I like to share and teach the scriptures no one highlights in their Bibles. Yes, the bad news! That way, the good news makes even more sense. If you’re a Bible highlighter, look at the words before and after those highlights to get the bigger picture of God’s blessings.
Example: Revelation 2:10
Bad News: Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days.
Good News: Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.
If Jesus only told His disciple why He came, it would be a welcoming idea for them to have a better life than a tax collector, fisherman, or any other occupation of those within hearing distance. Instead, He chose to warn them of the devil and what the devil has the power to do. I appreciate the warning!
The followers of the Messiah would suffer death, theft, and torture at the hands of those who didn’t follow the Truth, the Way, and the Life. The life Jesus was offering was eternal.
The devil cannot take this away from a true believer, but he can mess with your thoughts, feelings, choices, and soul. The Apostle Paul taught the followers how to defend themselves…
…above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. Ephesians 6:16 (NKJV)
Back to the Devil’s Parlor. I know you have all seen those fairways with a cliff, a tree, a creek bed occupied by snakes, etc., and you’ve watched the pros not be intimidated by the landscape. They’ve learned to look beyond it with faith. I envy them.
When or if the devil’s schemes have influenced your life, ask Jesus for his help. His grace will provide the desire and power to overcome. Have faith in Jesus!
Prayer: LORD, please show us Your way; keep us in Your truths. Thank you for your warnings and eternal life!