THURSDAY, MARCH 3
Scripture: Colossians 2:8

Colossians 2:8 says, “Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ.” The word ‘cheat’ in Greek is the same word that is used for plunder or spoil: to take captive by spoil. It is the enemy’s preemptive action at keeping the church from finding out their authority in Christ and ever accessing it in prayer. If we do not position ourselves to think according to God’s Word, we are spoiled by the culture around us. The culture around us says that if you are a Christian, then you are nice. Paul did not live to be nice. He lived to bring the triumph of Christ from the invisible realm of the Spirit into visible manifestations in every situation. He knew he could access heaven and ask God to put somebody in the grave if they were hindering the purpose and plan of God. Paul’s attitude was almost “Don’t make me ask God to dispose of you twice! Don’t make me ask God to bring you into blindness, but If you make me, I will.” Most church people do not think in those terms. Why? Because Colossians 2:8 is not a reality in their life and they have been spoiled through philosophy, deceit and tradition according to the principles of the world and not according to Christ. Renew your mind and think like Paul!