Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. (Phil 1:2)

Simon, Simon, Satan has demanded permission to sift you like wheat. (Lk 22:31)

How strikingly different are the intentions behind these statements. How diametrically opposed are their wills toward us.

One seeks to kill, steal, and destroy. The other comes to give life abundantly. (Jn 10:10)

One is a liar—the father of lies. (Jn 8:44) The other is Truth, and is full of grace and truth. (Jn 14:6; Jn 1:14)

One accuses. (Rev 12:10) The other condemns not. (“Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more.” Jn 8:10-11).

This being the case, then to whom should we gravitate? listen? respond?

But it’s easier said than done, isn’t it? We give attention to the one who hates us. We let his attacks shut us down and his assaults paralyze us.

Lord Jesus, thank You for reminding us to think about things that are true and honorable and just and pure and lovely and admirable and excellent and praiseworthy. And to give no place to the liar and his lies. Have mercy on us and help us to do this!