In Ephesians 2, Paul tells us that before Jesus died on the cross, we were dead to sin, and that we all obeyed the devil. The spirit of Satan is the spirit that is at work in those who refuse to obey God. Paul says that we all used to live that way; and because we followed the desires of sin, we were subject to the wrath of God. Although we are sinful beings who desire sinful things, God still loves us and is merciful towards us. In fact, He loves us so much that He sent His one and only son, Jesus Christ, to sacrifice himself for all of humanity. We were once dead to sin, but now, we have been given a new life.

Once we get to know who God really is and we start to spend more time with Him, we will find ourselves slowly (or quickly) starting to change. When we do not know God, we are filled with the sinful spirit of lust, impurity, selfish ambition, idolatry, and other things that do not please God (Galatians 5:19-21).  However, when we are filled with the Holy Spirit of God, His goodness fills our heart. From His goodness we produce good fruits such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). The only reason we are able to have the Holy Spirit dwelling within us is because of the great love and mercy that God has for us. It is truly amazing that God came to Earth in human form and died to save all of us! Moreover, He does not ask for anything in return except to love Him above all else and to love our neighbors as ourselves. He showed us what real love is and we should share it with others as well.

Suggested prayer: Dear God, thank you for sacrificing your one and only Son for me and everyone else. Thank you for loving me even when I stray away from you. Please forgive me when I give into temptation, and please help me to resist my sinful desires and obey you instead. In the name of Jesus I pray, Amen.

1. Ephesians 2:4-5 (NLT)

Today’s Encounter was written by: Gianna B.