Pastor Bob DuPar
March 29, 2008

Journal Entry


Scripture

Deuteronomy 11:1-12:32; Luke 8:22-39; Psalm 70:1-5; Proverbs 12:4.

Observation

Deuteronomy 11:16 describes the daily struggle we all face,

“Be careful, or you will be enticed to turn away and worship other gods and bow down to them.”

We live in an enticing culture and the gods that we worship are more subtle and inconspicuous than golden calves and Asherah poles – but just as deceptive and destructive.

I was struck by a few details in the story of the Gerasene demoniac which I don’t recall noticing in previous readings. First: “For a long time this man had not worn clothes…” (Luke 8:27) And, second, the mention that “the demons had driven him into a solitary place.” (8:29) The severity of his possession is obvious from his power to break free from chains and bonds. This guy was possessed by a lot of demons! He says his name is “Legion” for as he continues “we are many!” Talk about multiple personalities! It’s worth noting that a legion was a regiment of the Roman army, varying in number between three thousand and six thousand men. How painfully ironic that though outwardly he had the power to break free from any form of bondage, yet inwardly he had absolutely no power over the satanic bondage which tormented him and drove him to isolation. This last point screams out to me because I believe passionately after 20 years of ministry and counseling that driving people to isolation is one of Satan’ primary tactics in spiritual warfare.

Application

The things which entice also enslave! God is a jealous God and does not tolerate worship of anyone or anything other than Himself. I need to be on guard against the attack of the enemy. I need to be careful what I allow in my life and in my home.

Prayer

“God, would you protect me from people and things that have the power to lure me away from You. Would you give me the wisdom to stay away from people and places which would increase my vulnerability and opportunity to sin. Thank You that ‘greater is He who is in me than he that is in the world.”