“Why do I go mourning?” (Psalms 42:9)

Can you answer this, oh saint? Is there a good reason why you’re mourning instead of rejoicing? Why yield to anxious thoughts? You’re acting as if your name isn’t written in the Lamb’s Book of Life. Who are you listening to, the indwelling Holy Spirit, or the god of this world? “You are of God…He who is IN you is greater than he who is in the world” (1 John 4:4). “We know that we are of God, and the whole world lies under the sway of the wicked one. And we know that the Son of God has come and has given us an understanding, that we may know Him” (1 John 5:19-20). Christ “gave Himself for our sins, that He might deliver us from this present evil age” (Galatians 1:4).

In the first century, idols were made of wood and metal, without physical means of communication. Today, Satan influences saints through the sights and sounds of media. If you live in the West, you probably carry his greatest invention, the smart phone, with you at all times. It’s the counterfeit of the Holy Spirit, who for 2,000 years was the unique Helper and Comforter of saints. But now, your pocketgod is with you always, helping you with apps that help you and entertainment that comforts you. Too harsh? I think the Holy Spirit is grieved. “Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption” (Ephesians 4:30).

The internet is great for safety and education, but make sure your education is pleasing to your Lord. “Whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy - meditate on these things” (Philippians 4:8). “Come out from among them And be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, And I will receive you. I will be a Father to you, And you shall be My sons and daughters, Says the Lord Almighty” (2 Corinthians 6:17-18).

Your Lord hates the rod as much as you; He only uses it for your lasting good.