Stop Blaming The Devil

Good morning, brothers and sisters! Before we delve into today's sermon, let me share a funny story with you.

There was a man who was always blaming the devil for his troubles. Every time something went wrong, he would say, "The devil made me do it!" One day, his friend asked him, "Why do you always blame the devil?" The man replied, "Well, it's easier than admitting that I made a mistake!" 

We may chuckle at this story, but it brings up an important point. Blaming the devil or external circumstances for our own choices and actions can be a convenient way to avoid taking responsibility. Today, I want to encourage you to stop blaming the devil and instead take ownership of your choices and decisions.

Let's begin by looking at a powerful Bible verse in James 1:13-14 (NIV): "When tempted, no one should say, 'God is tempting me.' For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed."

This verse reminds us that our own desires and choices can lead us into temptation, not the devil. The devil may tempt us, but it is ultimately our decision whether to give in or resist. Blaming the devil for our actions is an attempt to shift the responsibility away from ourselves.

In the Garden of Eden, Adam and Eve faced temptation from the serpent. However, it was their own choice to eat the forbidden fruit that led to their fall. They couldn't blame the serpent or anyone else. They had to face the consequences of their own decision.

In our lives, blaming the devil can become a dangerous pattern. It can prevent us from growing, learning, and taking responsibility for our actions. It can hinder our relationship with God and hinder our spiritual growth.

Instead, let us turn to God's Word for guidance. Proverbs 16:9 (NIV) says, "In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps." This verse reminds us that we have the power to make choices, but it is God who ultimately directs our paths. We must seek His guidance and follow His will.

We also need to remember that we have been given the Holy Spirit as our guide and helper. Galatians 5:16 (NIV) says, "So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh." The Spirit empowers us to resist temptation and make godly choices.

Blaming the devil is a distraction from the work that God wants to do in our lives. Instead, let us take responsibility for our actions, confess our sins, and seek God's forgiveness and guidance. When we do this, we open ourselves up to His transformation and His power to overcome any temptation or struggle we may face.

Brothers and sisters, let us stop blaming the devil and start taking responsibility for our choices. Let us seek God's guidance, walk in the Spirit, and trust in His power to lead us on the right path. Remember, we are not victims of the devil; we are victorious in Christ. May we always strive to live in that victory and bring glory to our Heavenly Father.

In Jesus' name, amen.