When the Devil Comes to Church

Did you know that the devil comes to church? I really didn’t consider the idea until one Sabbath when church felt like anything but a blessing to me.

I was doing my best to pay attention to our lesson study but kept hearing two older women talking rather loudly in the back of the church.

Then someone criticized the lesson.

To make matters worse, when I spoke up to make a point, another church member said something hurtful to me. I had enough sense and respect for the church and the other members not to say anything back or make a scene; however, my mood and attitude were about as far from wanting to worship and be in church at all as they could get. I left as soon as the service was done, not staying to talk with anyone afterward. Later, I confided in one of my dear friends what had happened in my heart and how upset I had been at church that day. When I learned she had a similar experience, I suggested, “Maybe we need a sermon, ‘When Satan Comes to Church.’” I was not being totally serious, but the thought stuck in my mind. I had no doubt that Satan had been present in the complaining of members, the comments carelessly stated, and most definitely in the way that I chose to let my anger and irritation over what happened affect the remainder of my day.

I let it grow and fester and turn into something that wasn’t productive or in the spirit of God. Yes, the devil had certainly been in church that day, and he sat right next to me, feeding me with his spirit of discontent. How about you, friends? Have you ever let the devil come to church with you —or to the grocery store or a restaurant? There is hope. When we realize we are listening to the devil, we need to turn to Christ and pray for His strength to help us. He promises He will. Christ is stronger than the devil.

Let’s stop bringing the devil to church or anywhere with us.

Life is so much better when we unfriend him and his bad company. Lord, help us stop bringing the devil with us throughout our day; fill the spot we are happy to have him vacate. Amen.

Debra Snyder