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Education Ministry

Posted on August 12, 2004 ...

There’s more to the story of The Three Little Pigs than pigs, houses, and a big bad wolf. It’s really a commentary on life and the different attitudes people have toward the malevolent forces that seek to destroy that life. Think about it. There are those who, like the first two pigs, underestimate the power of the wolf. They do just enough to keep the rain off their heads, but when the wolf comes calling, they find themselves up to their necks in straw, sticks, and wolf teeth. Others are more like piggy #3. They take seriously the threat and put forth the time and energy to make sure they are ready when the old wolf comes around. The worse they get is hot wolf breath.

This summer, I have devoted my article space to exploring some of the realities of our enemy. As I noted earlier, I do not enjoy thinking about the devil, but I find it necessary to be more than just aware that he exists. The Bible takes the threat quite seriously. Consider this warning: “Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8). Tragically, too many think about the roaring lion of the Bible with the same lightheartedness as they do about the big bad wolf of a child’s bedtime tale – a good story, but certainly nothing to get all worked up about.

Jesus believed in the reality of the devil and He experienced first-hand the devil’s attack. He prevailed by a steadfast commitment to the will of His Father and an unwavering confidence in the Word of God. The devil’s schemes were no match for Jesus’ passion to please His Father. This spiritual power is not beyond our reach. We have the great promise that The Holy Spirit who lives in us is greater than the devil who is in the world (1 John 4:4). Yet it is still our responsibility to be at the top of our game. Our spiritual muscles must be strengthened by continued use and exercise. Otherwise, we will crumble when the devil comes huffin’ and puffin’.

So, how do we guard ourselves from that serpent of old? How do we keep him from advancing in our lives? By filling our minds with the Word of God and giving our lives to the will of God. Enhance your daily Bible study and prayer by joining others for Sunday Morning Bible study. Also, take advantage of these special Disciple Life courses starting soon:

* Song of Solomon (starts Monday, Aug. 16): Discover God’s perspective on romantic love.

* Career Builders (starts Wednesday, Sept. 1): Acquire practical skills and a Christian perspective for success in the job market.

* Becoming a Contagious Christian (starts Sunday, Sept. 12): Realize your potential for attracting others to Jesus.

* Adult Discipleship (starts Sunday, Sept. 12): A continuing exploration of the content of the Christian faith.

Please sign-up for Disciple Life courses on registration slip.