When Sin Grows in the Dark
Scripture:
John 13:27, Ephesians 4:27
Reflection:
One of the most chilling moments in the story of Judas occurs in John 13:27: "After Judas ate the piece of bread, Satan entered him." This moment marks the point where Judas gave full control to the enemy, allowing Satan to take over his heart and mind. But how did Judas get to this point? The pastor reminds us that Satan didn’t just enter Judas out of nowhere; Judas had been giving Satan a foothold for years through his unchecked greed and deception.
Ephesians 4:27 warns us, "Do not give the devil a foothold." Sin, when allowed to grow in darkness, provides a place for the enemy to work. Judas had been stealing from the money bag, harboring greed in his heart, and allowing it to fester. This hidden sin created an opportunity for Satan to take control.
We must be vigilant about the seemingly small sins in our lives. Whether it’s greed, lust, pride, or envy, these sins can grow in the dark if not confronted. And when they grow, they create space for the enemy to take control, just as he did with Judas.
Reflection Questions:
1. How does Ephesians 4:27 challenge you to be vigilant against giving the enemy a foothold in your life?
2. What small sins might you be tolerating that are giving space for the enemy to work?
3. How can you bring these sins into the light and prevent them from growing further?
Application:
Identify any "footholds" the enemy might have in your life—areas where sin has been allowed to grow unchecked. Confess these areas to God and take steps to bring them into the light, whether through prayer, accountability, or counseling. Remember, the enemy thrives in darkness, but sin loses its power when exposed to the light of Christ.
Prayer:
Lord, I ask that You shine Your light on the dark areas of my heart. Help me to recognize where I may have given the enemy a foothold and give me the strength to confess and repent of those sins. I ask for Your protection and guidance as I seek to walk in the light. In Jesus' name, Amen.