I have noticed that the enemy's schemes are sometimes so subtle that we often do not even recognize them. I have also observed that the more mature you become in Christ, the more subtle the tactics seem to be. When your "blinders" are on before you become a Christian, the devil can operate through blatant deception.
However, as you grow in your walk with the Lord, the enemy moves from rude to shrewd. Distraction seems to be the tool of choice, especially in American culture.
Many people think that if they do not feel pressured and exhausted all the time, then they are simply just not doing enough. If you are feeling spiritually, emotionally, and physically drained, this is an indicator that you need to clear some clutter out of your life.
John 10:10 says, "The thief does not come except to kill, steal, and destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly." (NKJV)
The word "life" in this verse is derived from the Greek word "zoe." It means "life in the absolute sense, life as God has it" (Vine's Expository Dictionary). Zoe is a heavenly form of life that Christians can experience as we surrender to Him. It is a life characterized by a supernatural peace and tranquility of the soul. As you enter into this place of overabundance, joy, healing, prosperity, and victory spring forth.
The zoe life is one that is marked by grace, not strife. When you enter into a spirit of strife, you experience frustration, aggrevation, and anxiety. The enemy operates in reverse. He wants you to believe you must enter into works to reach Jesus. In fact, it is just the other way around. Simplify your life until you can see Jesus clearly. All good works should flow from your relationship with Him.
I am reminded of the Bible verse Mark 2:4, "And when they could not come near Him because of the crowd, they uncovered the roof where He was. So when they had broken through, they let down the bed on which the paralytic was lying."
Sometimes we allow a "crowd of clutter" to come between our relationship with Jesus. Even our good works can create a distance between us and Him if they do not originate from Jesus. You must "uncover the roof" and see things from a heavenly viewpoint where new life springs forth from intimacy. From this heavenly stance, we can receive new revelation which is the key to breakthrough (notice the phrase in the verse, "so when they had broken through"). This break-through revelation will unlock resurrecting power which will allow us to walk with Him. Once the spirit of strife and condemnation is shattered, you will be free from spiritual paralysis.
Ask the Lord to illuminate your spirit to the things that fill your life that are not from Him. If He didn't ask you to do them, then they will only serve as a distraction between you and your destiny. Remember, anything you do from you own righteousness is nothing more than a filthy rag (Isaiah 64:6). Only that which springs from His righteousness and His kingdom will stand forever (Daniel 2:44).
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