Gospel Order

December4

"Be On Guard"

"Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God." Revelation 3:2

"It has been presented to me that Satanic agencies are working in ways that man does not expect. At times he puts on the robes of an angel of light, and many receive him as such a being. If we will link ourselves closely with Christ, Satan will have no power to overcome us. As we draw near to God, He draws near to us, and lifts up for us a standard against the enemy. I have been shown that some, even of those who teach the word of God, would be in great danger of being overcome. I saw some linking their arms in the arm of Satan, while he talked most earnestly with them, telling them of the many things that needed to be changed in the church. Afterward his words were repeated by those to whom he had talked. They were delighted with what seemed to them to be a clearer perception and better methods of working. I say to all, "Be on your guard, for as an angel of light Satan is walking among every church, trying to win the members to his side." I am bidden to give to the people of God the warning, "Be not deceived; God is not mocked." Christ explains in the parable of the Sower and the seed, the need of guarding against the enemy. "When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not," He says, "then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away the seed which was sown in his heart." After one has heard the truth, he is in great need of personal labor. Questions arise in his mind. Satan is watching for an opportunity to lead him to doubt. The enemy chooses agents whom he sends to him to misstate the words of the one who gave the message. "Then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in the heart." The tempted one opens his mind to the evil agencies, and yields to the tempter. Thus Satan turns the truth of God into a lie. The one that was convicted loses the blessed influence that if cherished would have meant eternal life to him. Satan takes possession of the heart, and it becomes hardened through the deceitfulness of sin." - Gospel Herald, June 1, 1905