Morning Devotional 081425 Even the Demons Shudder

Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room

August 14, 2025

Ephesians 5:15-20

15 So be careful to live your life wisely, not foolishly. 16 Take advantage of every opportunity because these are evil times. 17 Because of this, don’t be ignorant, but understand the Lord’s will. 18 Don’t get drunk on wine, which produces depravity. Instead, be filled with the Spirit in the following ways: 19 speak to each other with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs; sing and make music to the Lord in your hearts; 20 always give thanks to God the Father for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;

Good Morning! Allow the Holy Spirit to fill your soul!

It is amazing when I read a passage that is so relevant to our lives today. Almost daily, I hear someone say, “We are living in difficult times.” Some would go so far as to say, evil times. I think that it is essential to realize that since the fall of Adam, all times have contained evil. 

Evil exists, but our response to evil is what is most important. Evil is a powerful force that pulls and tugs at us every day of our lives. Evil hides itself in things that are appealing to our earthly minds. Evil is deceptive. We see something that seems innocent on the surface, but once we dive in, we find that evil is the foundation upon which the event is founded. 

If evil is so powerful, what can we do? There is only one force powerful enough to defeat evil: God’s love. Throughout the Bible, we read stories that show God overcoming evil. From Moses demanding the release of the Israelites to Jesus conquering death, the evidence of God’s power is on display. 

When we accept Christ as our Lord and Savior, we have access to God’s love, which is like a force field protecting us from the pulls and tugs of evil. Each act of kindness, each act of love, and each act of mercy weaken the power of evil. Evil is at the mercy of those who call upon God’s holy name. James 2:19 states, "You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder."

When facing evil, use the power that lives within you through the Holy Spirit to overcome the temptations that evil places on your path. In John 16:33, Jesus says, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

Giving Lord, you bless us abundantly! Evil tempts us with shiny things. Help us look away and engage in what is good! Thank you. We love you, Lord! In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen

Thought for the day: God holds the key to overcoming evil.

Turn on your force field! Pastor Liz