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The Device of Worldliness, November 3
Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant
of his devices.
2 Corinthians 2:11
.
Solomon says, “He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool”
(
Proverbs 28:26
); and there are hundreds of such to be found among
professors of godliness. Says the apostle: “We are not ignorant of his
[Satan’s] devices.” Oh, what art, what skill, what cunning, is exercised
to lead the professed followers of Christ to a union with the world by
seeking for happiness in the amusements of the world, under the delu-
sion that some good is to be gained! And thus the unguarded walk right
into the net, flattering themselves that there is no evil in the way....
How can I endure the thought that most of the youth in this age will
come short of everlasting life! Oh, that the sound of instrumental music
might cease and they no more while away so much precious time in
pleasing their own fancy. Oh, that they would devote less time to dress
and vain conversation, and send forth their earnest, agonizing prayers
to God for a sound experience. There is great necessity for close self-
examination in the light of God’s Word; let each one raise the inquiry:
“Am I sound, or am I rotten at heart? Am I renewed in Christ, or am I
still carnal at heart, with a new dress put on the outside?” Rein yourself
up to the great tribunal, and in the light of God examine to see if there
be any secret sin that you are cherishing, any idol that you have not
sacrificed. Pray, yes, pray as you have never prayed before, that you
may not be deluded by Satan’s devices.... Surely the foundation of your
hope of everlasting life cannot be laid too sure.... While those around us
may be vain and engaged in pleasure seeking and folly, our conversation
is in heaven, whence we look for the Saviour; the soul is reaching out
after God for pardon and peace, for righteousness and true holiness.
Expel sin from your hearts, for sin caused the death of the Son of
God.
Jesus died, dear youth, not to save you in your sins, but from your
sins.
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