Christ did not enter into conversation with Satan when he was tempted in the desert. Instead, he responded, “It is written…” Yet, God’s Word isn’t always my first response. I have often asked to hear more of what Satan has to say. I have mulled his words over in my mind and considered them in my heart.

It would be convenient if Satan would show up as a talking snake. Then, we could run away screaming or call animal control. Perhaps, the bravest of us would grab a stick and whack him until he left. We know a talking snake is not to be trusted. But, though murderous deceit is still his tactic, Satan’s approach has changed since his day in the garden with Eve. We are told that he disguises himself as an angel of light. And, terrifyingly, he comes to us as an agent of reason.

When the father of lies has come to tempt me, instead of immediately banishing him with truth, I have often invited him in, asked him to sit on my couch and engaged in chats with him to hear his perspective.

Christ did not enter into conversation with Satan when he was tempted in the desert. Instead, he responded, “It is written…” Yet, God’s Word isn’t always my first response. I have often asked to hear more of what Satan has to say. I have mulled his words over in my mind and considered them in my heart.

Satan spoke the first lie in human history, “You will not certainly die. He knows that if you eat it you will be like him, knowing good and evil.” What Satan said is not completely untrue, but it is the truth twisted. Yes, Eve would be like God in that she would know good and evil. She would remember what it was to be wholly good and she would watch sin mangle her innocence as she converted to a child of wrath. She would feel evil seize her heart and separate her from God’s holy presence. And, she would certainly die.

One of the oldest lies in my life has been, “Be less of what you are. Be more of what you aren’t.”

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