“For false messiahs and false prophets will appear 

and perform great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect.”

[Matthew 24:24]

 

The end times – the times of false witnesses – are emerging. During this imminent season of great harvest there will be tares that grow up alongside the wheat. Our enemy seeks to disguise such dangers from our eyes. 

 

Let’s pay very close attention to “deceive, if possible, even the elect.” We must be aware of the plans and schemes of our enemy. We know he likes to hide. Satan seeks smokescreens. He is identified by deceptive behaviors. The most obvious one is his obvious pattern of deceptive prevarication. He’s a liar. There is no truth in him. 

 

We suppose we’ll be able to identify a lie. Sadly, however, we are too easily deluded. We have a tendency to believe many things that just ain’t so. Far too often, people are suckers for shiny objects, loud music, booze, smoke and mirrors. All that glitters isn’t God.

 

Don’t hear me saying that God can’t use anything. I’m stating that the idea something looks, feels, smells, sounds or tastes good isn’t an adequate gauge to recognize God’s kingdom. The Lord cautions us to stay on His narrow path through vigilance. Our foe knows our weaknesses. God is teaching us to recognize his lies – even when camouflaged in distracting, attractive garb.

 

Mercifully, the way God has designed our harvest fields, the ripest tares are easily identified. Our most effective defense comes by studying God’s word, walking uprightly, and practicing humility. We temper our zealousness with grace and mercy. 

 

Folks who are serious about advancing God’s glorious kingdom will be targeted. Why? Because we’re a threat! But fear not! God is with us. His victory and the Spirit of God’s Firstfruit within us are inseparable. Our Lord separates His wheat from Hell’s tares. Glory!

 

Proper preparation in prayer, worship, healthy fellowship and humble service teaches us to recognize hell’s plots and ploys. Time in the word gives us supernatural discernment. The mature believer is attuned to the subtle moves of society’s snakes. That forked tongue is a sure give-away to not trust whatever comes out of its mouth.

 

It is possible to conquer our foe. God has destined and designed His elect for these days. Do not be deceived! Walk in His Ruach!