“The thief (the devil) comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly” (John 10:10).
Dear Jesus, first of all, thank you for coming into our world to give us life—abundant and eternal life. By your life and death for us, we have passed from death to newness of life (Jn. 5:24; Rom.6:4). And all by your grace, we have a “priceless inheritance—an inheritance that is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay” (1 Pet.1:4). Hallelujah, and thank you.
The devil knows he’s lost us for eternity, but that doesn’t stop his thievery. He can’t snatch us from your hand, but he still tries to steal a lot of stuff from our hearts—precious things you have won for us and give us freely. Wisdom involves being wise to his schemes, and taking proper measures. (2 Cor.2:11).
Like a professional robber “casing the joint” before the break in, the devil leaves most of our stuff alone, but targets. Jesus, first and foremost, the devil wants to rob us of intimacy with you (2 Cor.11:1-3)—the assurance of your love, enjoyment of your delight in us, and the peace you alone can give us (Jn.14:27). 90% + of his “break-ins” focus on “stealing, killing, and destroying” any sense of a close walk we enjoy with you. This is the “Hope Diamond” of our hearts.
SO Jesus, for the rest of this 2023 summer, we ask you to restore the love we had for you at first. Renew, refresh, re-invigorate our walk, intimacy, and enjoyment of you. And if we’ve never had it, “bring it on.” Once again, be the ALL that really matters to us. So Very Amen.
