Battle for the Vessel
Man is a vessel created to show forth the glory of our Creator, by whose breath we live and move and have our being. Seems straightforward, right? So, why is there such evil permeated in man’s society? Surely this is not the outcome of God’s breath!
It isn’t. From the beginning of time, there has been a colossal battle waged between those who would see the manifestation of God’s glory in man, and those who would distort that manifestation. Our very first glimpse of this struggle is in the garden of Eden, where Eve is tantalized by the words, did God really say…? (Gen 3:1) Beware anything or anyone that prompts you to rationalize or question God’s word to you – that is an attempt to corrupt your destiny.
We were created to have perfect fellowship with our Father, but sin separates us from Him. Simply put, sin is a distortion or corruption of God’s perfect purpose.
Man’s nature can be corrupted by both internal and external forces. James 1:14-15 says “Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. These desires give birth to sinful actions, and when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death.” Most of us are familiar with the concept or principle of our internal desires causing us to fall into sin. This is why Jesus advised that we should deal ruthlessly with those things in our lives that entice us to sinful behavior (Matthew 5:29-30).
What most of us are not aware of is that there could be external factors influencing our behavior. These externals are agents of the devil, unclean spirits, principalities and powers, spiritual wickedness in high places (Ephesians 6:12). They sound like the stuff of legend, but are only too real. As believers, we would do well to educate ourselves on the insidious influence these unclean beings have on people and the world today.
Have you ever wondered why you did what you just did, or why you can’t seem to stop that thing you hate? When we encounter depravity and degradation in humanity that takes our breath away, we need to look beyond what is seen or can be comprehended by our senses. Conversely, the influence of these invisible beings may not be so obvious – that is why we must pursue knowledge, so that we may not be destroyed for lack of it (Hosea 4:6).
Be blessed,
R
Suggested resources: books and recorded teachings by Derek Prince.
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