Young People's Group

“LEST SATAN SHOULD TAKE ADVANTAGE OF US”

by Pastor Mitch
June 20, 2004

The Issue Of Forgiveness

It is always a challenge to live our lives blamelessly and righteously. The breastplate of righteousness is something that a Christian must always wear to protect his heart and his innermost feelings. The evil one will do all he can to influence our emotions and will. This can be better understood from a situation where Paul was addressing the issue of forgiveness in the Corinthian Church. There was man who was being disciplined by the Church. It was not known who this person was and what he had done, except that he had wronged Paul. It is apparent that the Church had sufficiently disciplined him.

“This punishment which was inflicted by the majority is sufficient for such a man…” 
2 Corinthians 2:6

It was time to forgive him. When a person has wronged us and he is truly repentant, it is important we forgive that person even though it is not easy. If we do not forgive, it gives room to Satan for his devices.

Satan Takes Advantage Of An Unforgiving Heart

“Lest Satan should take advantage of us; for we are not ignorant of his devices.”
2 Corinthians 2:11

When there is an unforgiving heart, Satan can use that to his advantage. We can be used by Satan to do his will. The name “Satan” means the accuser. He is known as the accuser of the brethren. He will make things worse for people. Paul knew how having an unforgiving heart will add greater sorrow to the person who is at fault.

“Lest perhaps such a one be swallowed up with too much sorrow.” 
2 Corinthians 2:7

He could be overwhelmed with great sorrow. He will end up with depression and despair. That is why it is so important to know Satan’s devices. When we are continually ignorant of his devices, we will fall prey to the evil one. He will use our weakness against ourselves or others.

Learning To Have A Heart Of Forgiveness

When a person sorrows for his sins and repents, it is vital that we forgive. We must learn to have a heart that is gracious enough to forgive.

“You ought rather to forgive and comfort him…” 
2 Corinthians 2:7

We should pardon and encourage him. We ought to set aside our anger and give this person a second chance. There should be the reaffirming of our love for him too.

“Therefore I urge you to reaffirm your love to him.” 
2 Corinthians 2:8

We should restore this person into the fellowship of our love once again. The Corinthians were also to obey the advice of the senior servant of God.

“For to this end I also wrote, that I might put you to the test, whether you are obedient in all things.” 
2 Corinthians 2:9

They were being put to the test by Paul. It was important that they learn to obey his words. In spiritual warfare, ignorance is not bliss. It can be most detrimental and destructive. Let’s seek to know the devices of the evil one. Let’s be aware that an unforgiving heart can be used to the advantage of the devil.

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