Giving Place
“Be angry, and do not sin: do not let the sun go down on your wrath, nor give place to the devil.”—Ephesians 4:26–27
Paul warned us not to give “place” to the devil. The Greek word here indicates a location that has been separated and marked off. The word topography, the study of the land surface, is derived from this word. It’s the graphic delineation in detail on maps, showing relative positions and elevations.
It can help to think of our lives as being like a territory we control. Like a nation, our territory has borders, and we have the authority and power to determine whom we will allow into that territory! A prudent nation guards those borders. Great confusion and danger are possible when defenses are weak or inadequate. The nation is most secure when the borders are strong and patrolled.
Just like a nation, we can determine who or what we will allow to have a place in our hearts and minds—what ideas, what emotions, and what attitudes. Tragically, many Christians actually “give place to the devil.” They allow him and his ideas entry into their hearts and minds.
Notice that this is something we “give.” This act is our choice. The devil can only have entry into our lives if we allow him to enter! To be freed of his influence, we must be vigilant, on guard, and stop him before he enters our lives!
Be careful what you allow in the territory of your heart and mind—what ideas, what influences, what people.
Reflection Question: Where have you recently given place to the devil—even inadvertently?
Prayer
Father, give me discernment in what I am allowing into my mind and heart. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Today's Bible Reading
Ephesians 4
Prayer
Father, give me discernment in what I am allowing into my mind and heart. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Today's Bible Reading
Ephesians 4
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