Written by: Debi Adams
How different would your life be if nothing offended you? I have asked myself this question many times. God tells us that we will have great peace if we love His law. One of the benefits of loving His Word is that nothing will offend us or cause us to stumble. Words cannot convey how different we would be if we experienced “Great Peace.” I love this promise found in Psalm 119:165 and it has become my secret prayer. “Lord, cause me to love your Word so I can live in the realm of great peace!
There is a peace of God that surpasses all understanding that is available to us during our troubles. When we love the Word of God we desire to apply it to our lives. We will not let any external trouble rob us of God’s peace or His presence. It is important to note that “peace” in Hebrew is mylw, shalom. This word also signifies safety, wholeness, tranquility, prosperity, healthfulness and completion. I am sure that everyone would love to have these benefits of peace working in their daily lives. That is why I recommend a book called: “The Bait of Satan,” by John Bevere (Living Free from the Deadly Trap of Offense)
Jesus said to his disciples: “Things that cause people to stumble are bound to come, but woe to anyone through whom they come. (Luke 17:1) We know we will always have many opportunities to be offended, but we can live free of offences.
I have gained many valuable insights from reading, “The Bait of Satan.” It is my desire to impart the same blessings to you. This is a critical message because your response to offenses will determine your future. The Greek word for “offend” found in Luke 17:1, comes from the word skandalon and refers to the part of the trap where bait is attached. Satan uses offences to trap us! Offended is how He wants us to be and to stay offended. We become imprisoned when we take the bait of offence!
God gave me a vivid illustration one day of someone locked in a prison cell. The prisoner begged everyone who passed by to set them free. No one was able to help because there was only one key to unlock the cell door. The prisoner had the only key to the cell but refused to use it because the key to freedom was forgiveness. The only way for you to be released from your prison cell is to forgive. Forgiveness is a choice! The destiny God has ordained for us is only obtainable when we learn how to escape the enemy’s trap. Imagine, having the ability to be freed from prison within your grasp but refusing to use it. Yet, that is exactly what happens every time we refuse to forgive.
The Bait of Satan will not only give you keys to freedom, but it will position you to receive your inherited blessings. (1 Peter 3:9)
