by Erin O. Crosby
The Word: “…but Israel,
who pursued a law of righteousness, has not attained it. Why not? Because
they pursued it not by faith but as if it were by works. They stumbled
over the "stumbling stone." Romans 9:31 (NIV)
The Story: Recently, I
spent some time online listening to Beth Moore’s 30-minute Bible study.
Of the many fascinating and convicting things she talked about regarding
“stumbling stones,” one thing has really stuck with me. She said
- as only Beth Moore can - that because the enemy cannot take our salvation,
his only tactic to keep us from fully experiencing God is to keep us
in CAPTIVITY.
The Reflection: After hearing
this powerful statement, a few questions immediately came to mind. What
is holding me captive? What has captivated me and drawn me from living
as my Father desires? And finally, if I believe my salvation is sealed
and I truly understand what it means to be Christ follower, why am I
giving Satan the power and authority to hold me captive? While I haven’t
been able to answer all these questions, I did come to realize that
much like the Israelites (who were often captives), my refusal to live
wholly surrendered to Christ gives Satan ample opportunity to lay traps
for me.
The Application: This week,
I encourage you to spend some time thinking and praying about what parts
of your life you’ve handed over to the enemy, despite the promises
of your salvation. Also, ask God to reveal what you don’t know or
believe about Him thus allowing the enemy to lure you into captivity.
The Prayer: Thank you Father
for the binding contract of salvation. Help us to know, believe and
understand who you are as well as what it means to be saved. I pray
that each day we remember that we cannot live in both captivity and
freedom. Let us remain hopeful because there is freedom for the captives.
