There is a verse in Ephesians that’s only one sentence long. Eight words.

Ephesians 4:27

New International Version

27 and do not give the devil a foothold.

At first, I wanted to discuss with you all the ways we open the door to the devil. Then I remembered what the Canadian Mounties used to do to identify counterfeit paper bills. They didn’t study the counterfeit ones but the authentic money. In so doing, the counterfeit became readily apparent.

Our concentration should not be on something we can’t do but on what we can do. The first step would be to open the door for Jesus to come in. I can promise He is still knocking if you have yet to open the door. 

Imagine your life as being comparable to a hoarder’s house. It is important to note Jesus’ concern is not pointing out the wrong He finds there. He encourages you to part with what interferes with your relationship with Him.

 His purpose is to bring joy and freedom to your life. So, He calls attention to what you are hanging onto, which brings sorrow and bondage. He even asks permission to rid you of these things. Jesus asks, “Do you want to keep this, or would you like Me to take it from you?”

 The second step, then, is to trust Him. Trust He is on your side, not against you. Choose to believe it is to your benefit to give Him those things bringing you harm. Our choices determine our future.