A young man was offered a job that seemed legitimate but required paying a large fee for the application form and travelling to another state. Despite being warned that it was likely a scam, he proceeded with the application and ended up losing a significant amount of money. Ultimately, the job offer turned out to be a scam, and he returned disappointed.
Friend, deception is real. One of the evils to watch out for these last days is deception (2 Timothy 3:13). Jesus and the apostles warned that the activities of deceivers will increase these last days (Matthew 24:4, 2 Thessalonians 2:3). The devil cannot destroy a man unless he has first deceived that man.
Deception refers to the act of intentionally misleading or deceiving someone, often through false or misleading information, actions, or appearances (Genesis 3:1-13). It involves concealing the truth, manipulating facts, or creating a false impression to achieve a desired outcome or gain an advantage. Don’t be ignorant of the devil’s devices so he won’t take advantage of you (2 Corinthians 2:11).
Distraction is the ground for deception, which ultimately leads to destruction. What is stealing your focus (1 Kings 20:40)? What is diverting your attention? Why are you suddenly being lured in a direction you never planned? When it looks too good to be true, it is most likely not true. When the voice is Jacob’s voice, but the hands are the hands of Esau, hold on and check again (Genesis 27:22). Don’t be in a hurry.
Don’t use previous experiences to judge the current one. Satan is a deceiver. If he could succeed in deceiving the whole world, then you have got to be careful (Revelation 12:9). The devil often changes colour like a chameleon (2 Corinthians 11:13-15). Let truth become a stronghold in your life, so lies and deception cannot have a foothold.
Don’t make critical decisions alone. Bounce it off the right people in your life. Listen to authority figures (Proverbs 11:14). Don’t walk by your sensibility but by your sensitivity (Isaiah 11:3). When you think you cannot be wrong, you are already wrong. Like Samuel, even an anointed person can be deceived (1 Samuel 16:6-7). Pray daily for sensitivity. Pray for mercy. You will not be deceived. Amen.
‘Demola Awoyele
Lead Pastor,
Destiny Impact Church
Akure, Nigeria