We have a big family by Australian standards, with six children, a son in law and grand daughter. When the kids are all together they can be noisy, they talk, (alot!), they squabble, they laugh loudly, sing even louder, dance all over the house and create mess, and an amazing amount of washing!
We are incredibly blessed, and I am known to be a little protective, (“don’t poke the Mumma bear”) about my family.
But I have discovered that there is a visitor who tries to sneak into our home when we are not being vigilant to keep him out. Though our home welcomes many into it, I make every effort to keep the front door firmly shut to this particular visitor. He is definitely not welcome!
He loves strife, gossip, backbiting, fighting and anger. Actually he tries to bring some of his more unsavory mates along with him to visit too. I tell our kids don’t let these guys in! But sometimes the door of our home is opened, and in they waltz bringing havoc with them. They even try to camp out and make themselves really comfortable in my lounge room, at the kitchen table, and believe it or not in the bathroom!
Who are they you might ask?
Their names are strife, unforgiveness, bitterness, anger, hatred, selfishness, and the master of evil Satan. They have access into our homes when we welcome them in by our negative attitudes, speech and the way we relate to one another.
Next time they show up at your house, “show them the door”. Then make sure you and your family keep your home firmly shut against them sneaking back in. No good comes from them hanging around. Tell them they are not welcome. Not anytime, not anywhere, not ever!
The bible tells us know what Satan is the mastermind of, and to be vigilant against his schemes operating in our lives; “For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work” (James 3:16).
Instead we are encouraged to welcome Jesus, and the peace and bliss of heaven into our house. “However the wisdom that comes from heaven above, is first of all pure, then peace-loving, gentle, willing to yield, full of compassion and good deeds, and without a trace of partiality or hypocrisy”. (James 3:17) “Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me”. (Revelation 3:20)
Make your home and family a place your’e glad to come home to. You might need to kick some unwanted house guests out, but you’ll be glad you did.
Prayer: Envy, strife, anger, and anyone and anything else that you Satan have tried to bring into my home, get out in Jesus name! You are not welcome here any longer. Jesus you are welcome here permanently. Please come fill my home and life, with your peace, unity and love. In Jesus name. Amen.
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