The Schemes of the Enemy

 Joshua 9-11; 1 Corinthians 6 

“…all the kings west of the Jordan…came together to make war against Joshua and Israel. However, when the people of Gibeon heard what Joshua had done to Jericho and Ai, they resorted to a ruse:…”

Joshua 9:1-4

The enemy will oppose the advance of Christ’s kingdom. When opposition comes, we can rejoice that Jesus is making an impact through the Church.

As Joshua’s campaign illustrates, the enemy either opposes us through force or through deception. The direct attack of force is often easier to combat than deception. Those who join the covenant community as messengers of the enemy, having a plan to interfere with prayer, limit evangelism or missions, or sow division, are difficult to discipline. Nehemiah found his building project was opposed by people wanting to help him. When offered help, we must inquire of the Lord regarding the gifts of those who come to join us. Not all gifts come from the Lord.

“Lord Jesus, guard my heart and your Church from both direct attacks and deceptive schemes of the enemy. I choose to listen to you and value your counsel in all things, for your glory.”