Today we find the children of Israel seeking to rebuild the temple and walls... and of course the enemy isn't very happy about that, so he sends along his distractors. For a time, he succeeded, but he won't succeed forever.
Regarding this experience, Ellen White writes about the danger of listening to those with fair speeches and smooth words who try to hinder God's work...
"There is constant danger that professing Christians will come to think that in order to have influence with worldlings, they must to a certain extent conform to the world. But though such a course may appear to afford great advantages, it always ends in spiritual loss. Against every subtle influence that seeks entrance by means of flattering inducements from the enemies of truth, God’s people must strictly guard. They are pilgrims and strangers in this world, traveling a path beset with danger. To the ingenious subterfuges and alluring inducements held out to tempt from allegiance, they must give no heed.
It is not the open and avowed enemies of the cause of God that are most to be feared. Those who, like the adversaries of Judah and Benjamin, come with smooth words and fair speeches, apparently seeking for friendly alliance with God’s children, have greater power to deceive. Against such every soul should be on the alert, lest some carefully concealed andmasterly snare take him unaware. And especially today, while earth’s history is closing, the Lord requires of His children a vigilance that knows no relaxation. But though the conflict is a ceaseless one, none are left to struggle alone. Angels help andprotect those who walk humbly before God. Never will our Lord betray one who trusts in Him. As His children draw near to Him for protection from evil, in pity and love He lifts up for them a standard against the enemy. Touch them not, He says; for they are Mine. I have graven them upon the palms of My hands." (Prophets and Kings, p. 570)This really is sobering... "It is not the open and avowed enemies of the cause of God that are most to be feared..." it's those with smooth words and talk that seem to be supportive but are really trying to undermine. In other words, it's not just wicked devices that hinder our forward progression, sometimes (or often) it can be apparent good things, acceptable things, maybe put out of priority, that get in the way of our walk with God and growth. Praying that God will help us stay vigilant to the task and not be distracted by fair voices...
[On the way home back to Maryland today! Praise God! It's been wonderful Reformation Tour, but I'm ready to go home...]
Tomorrow's Reading: Ezra 5-6 and Ps. 77
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