Opening Verse
“And said, O full of all subtilty and all mischief, thou child of the devil, thou enemy of all righteousness, wilt thou not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord?”
— Acts 13:10 (KJV)
Introduction
In the book of Acts, we encounter a man named Bar-Jesus, also known as Elymas the sorcerer. He used his cunning and deceitful ways to mislead people, opposing the truth of God’s word. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers of falsehood and the ultimate triumph of truth.
Devotional Story
Bar-Jesus was a false prophet who used sorcery to influence and deceive the people. He tried to turn the proconsul Sergius Paulus away from the faith when Paul and Barnabas were sharing the gospel. Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, rebuked him sharply, and Bar-Jesus was struck with blindness. This physical blindness mirrored the spiritual blindness he was spreading among the people.
Just as Bar-Jesus used his skills to lead people away from the truth, there are many today who employ persuasive speech and deceitful practices to keep others from seeing the light of Christ. These modern-day “sorcerers” may not use magic, but their words and actions can be just as misleading and harmful.
What This Means
Bar-Jesus’ temporary blindness was a direct result of his attempt to blind others from the truth. It symbolizes how spiritual blindness can afflict those who choose to deceive and those who are deceived. In a world full of distractions and false teachings, it is crucial to stay rooted in the word of God and discern truth from lies.
Think About This
– Are there areas in your life where you might be influenced by deceitful teachings or false information?
– How can you strengthen your understanding and discernment of the truth?
– Consider the ways you can help others see the light of Christ amidst the confusion of today’s world.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we pray for wisdom and discernment in a world filled with deception. Help us to see clearly through the lies and to stand firm in your truth. Guide us to be lights in the darkness, leading others to the clarity and salvation found in Jesus Christ. Amen.
Closing Verse
“Then the deputy, when he saw what was done, believed, being astonished at the doctrine of the Lord.”
— Acts 13:12 (KJV