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A few days ago, we heard the news that a gunman on the campus of Michigan State University had taken innocent lives. The reports described that the man had become increasingly isolated over the last several years, was estranged from his family and society, and his contempt for humanity grew, resulting in a murderous rage.

Evil is everywhere. From dimly lit back alleys to high-rise corporate offices to the dark web, our world is infiltrated with every manifestation of evil. The schemes and lies of the enemy (Satan) are meant to bring war on God’s purposes and death and destruction to all living things. Simply put, we are occupying enemy territory.

While many forms of evil are plain to see, not all evil presents itself so blatantly. The Apostle Paul even warned the Corinthians that Satan masquerades as an angel of light. Not all that glitter is gold. As believers, we must learn to recognize evil and decide what we will allow to influence our lives. Little compromises can become major strongholds that impact our view of the world and God’s place in our lives. Understanding God’s truth and purposes through His Word can help us oppose evil and expose Satan’s lies.

Reflection: In what ways have you allowed the world to shape you? Are you participating in any kind of evil? What are you allowing to influence your life?

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