ArcaMax

From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Q: Is joking about the Devil a sin? -- D.J.

A: Many jokes are made about the Devil, but he is no laughing matter. Some people make light of the Devil, thinking that he is some figment of imagination that runs around with a tail dragging behind him. But with the state of the world and the godless society that permeates the culture, some people take it a little more serious. Then there are those who are drawn to Satan. They want to learn more about the Devil, demons, witchcraft, the occult, etc. In many cases, these people do not fully realize they are inviting Satan to come into their thinking and into their very lives. They are deluded.

The Bible says that Satan is the father of lies. He is the most successful liar of all because he persuades millions of people to follow him. He is called a deceiver. In order to accomplish his purpose, the Devil blinds people to their need for Christ. Two forces are at work in our world -- the forces of Christ and the forces of Satan. You must choose the way you will follow.

Pray to the Lord God and ask him to give you strength to live life according to His word in the Bible. Ask Him to protect you and keep you from the deceptions of Satan. Start by giving your life to Christ and draw on the strength of His Holy Spirit to discipline yourself to think on the things of the Lord. Scripture tells us plainly not to give Satan a foothold in our lives (Ephesians 4:27).

Don't be deceived by Satan and his lies. Instead, stay close to Christ -- because the closer you are to Him, the farther away you are from the Devil.

========

(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)

(c)2018 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.