In the wake of what some individuals have called one of the worst financial times in history, a strong statement punctuated by high unemployment among other factors. In times like these, we need to be very careful because it breeds opportunity for predators to take advantantage. Why is this important now? Once again an opportunity to delve into scripture presents itself and i'm most excited to share an experience from the life of Jesus (please reference St. John 13).
I used the title strategies of obfuscation, but I could have just as effectively used the titles "Don't be Naive" and "Get to know your Enemy." Allow me to explain further, in verse 1 of John 13 the Bible states "...Jesus knew that his hour was come that he should depart out of this world unto the Father." This is a powerful statement in itself. It has similarities in the atmospheric realm of this present time. There would have been a sense of feeling that something huge is about to happen but you can't quite understand exactly what it is. Sort of like seeing all these signs that something is in the air but you can't quite put your finger on the magnitude as to what these signs reveal. But the enemy knows. And the enemy is already positioning himself to prepare.
In verse 2, the Bible lets us know that the devil has put it into Judas Iscariot's heart to betray Jesus. This positioning was so subtil that it escaped the senses of the disciples. Although they were not alert to this, Jesus was. It is a perfect example of obfuscation because it would have been difficult to perceive the enemy's strategy. He came as a wolf in sheep's clothing unbeknownst to those around him. He became a part of the family, someone whom they would never question the integrity because he became one of them.
Jesus, and I love this about him, took this time to immediately address the situation. With his infinite wisdom, he creates an opportunity to demonstrate the love of a real King of Kings while, at the same time, exposing the pretender for who he really is. The thing I most respect about Jesus is that he didn't put the devil down to make himself look good, he simply got down on his knees and washed his disciples feet. And he basically said, in verse 14-15, I lead by example. He taught us what all good leaders will do. He, in essence, compared his leadership skills to that of the devil and asked you to decide who you wanted to follow.
Exposing the devil for who he is, isn't easy. Because he would have just denied it or altered his form of attack. Jesus knew who he was from the beginning and he allowed the disciples in on this by stating in verse 11 that "Ye are not all clean." This was so awesome, because it teaches us to stay on alert at all times. We can't allow our guards to slip we can't begin to become comfortable because our adversary is always seeking who he will devour.
Jesus made it clear that we cannot serve two masters. He wanted us to choose but the choice won't be easy because the enemy is skilled at making you trust that he is a leader. His tactics are similar in nature even, that is why it is important to note that he betrayed Jesus with a kiss or the ultimate sign of love. But if you understand that love can only come from God then your eyes will begin to be opened. And you will learn that you can't trust even a kiss from the enemy. But you can trust God.
In this present time, I just feel that something is about to happen but I can't put my finger on it's magnitude. I used this example to show you that the enemy has not changed much. You still can't trust him. So maintain high alert, stay on guard at all times, and by all means consult our Father for his leadership style is unmatched. In all thy ways acknowledge him and trust him to direct your paths.
