In a land of high rises, this farm girl was thankful that her first Taiwan rental had ground-floor entry.
Within days of moving in, however, we realized that the parking spot in front of our entry gate was going to be a problem.
The next door neighbor was the worst about blocking the entry. More often than not, we returned home with his motorcycle leaned against our gate.
Now this wasn’t just any scooter. With a oversized windshield, tall handlebars, and leather saddlebags, this bike was a real anomaly – and Mr. Wang knew it. He washed the cycle, dusted the cycle and polished the cycle. In fact, he worshipped it.
After several weeks of discussion, we finally compromised that as long as we could open our door, he could park his bike directly in front of our house.
We thought the kindness would give us an opportunity to share Christ with Mr. Wang. But we were wrong. He was on top of the world and had a flashy Yamaha to prove it.
As we continued to pray for Mr. Wang, an interested thing happened. The bike disappeared from our gate.
One day, Mark bumped into our neighbor and was shocked at his disheveled appearance. After exchanging some awkward pleasantries, Mark asked about the motorcycle.
“She’s gone,” Mr. Wang replied with a blank stare. “Someone stole her and I don’t know what to do.”
After a brief pause, he continued in Chinese, “Without her, I don’t know what to live for.”
You see, the evil one had misdirected Mr. Wang’s dependence from Truth to a tricked-out Yamaha.
As long as there is no need, no one naturally seeks God (Psalm 14:1-3). Once we become desperate, however, our heart is one step closer to really knowing Truth.
Effective intercession begins with an insight into dependence. For where your treasure is, there your heart is as well (Matthew 6:21).
We need to ask for wisdom to discern dependency issues. Relying on anything other than God is a deceit addiction.
And remember: deceit’s dad is the father of all lies (John 8:44).
Yesterday, we read about what the evil one relies on.
Now think of those for whom you are praying:
Is your granddaughter fixated on her looks? Ask the Stronger Man to gently bind up this obsession and release her to see herself through His eyes (Song 4:7).
Is your friend caught in a web of worry? Pray that our Almighty God gag those deceiving whispers and turn her eyes toward Jehovah Jireh, the God who provides (Genesis 22:14).
Is your co-worker choked with cynicism? Request the Spirit of Power to reveal the source of his mistrust and heal him with the freedom of Truth (John 8:32).
Let’s join together today by targeting Christ’s power toward the chains of deceit.
By the way, what specific prayer are you praying?
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Review the series so far:
Silky Smooth Deception and Prayer
The Strong Man and his Opponent
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