The Rules of Engagement

The Rules of Engagement

D octrines of D evils A doctrine is a rule, principle of law, or a statement of official government policy, especially in foreign affairs and military strategies. Doctrines of devils therefore, are those rules, governmental policies, and principles of laws that do not adhere to or reflect biblical principles. Satan is skillful at preaching another gospel . The unsuspecting and innocent become easy prey because many seek to be enlightened rather than seek God. The New Age movement is an example of this deception. (See Matthew 6:22–23; 1 Timothy 4:1.) D octrines of M an As with doctrines of devils, these are principles or laws men hold and are promulgated through political policies, laws, legislative edicts, educational curricula, religious tenets, and teachings. (See Matthew 15:9.) D oubt Doubt is characterized by feelings of uncertainty and misgivings. This was one of the weapons used against Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. One of the things you should never allow the enemy to cause you to doubt is the Word of God. Jesus promises us in Matthew 24:35 that “heaven and earth shall pass away, but my [His] words shall not pass away.” Doubt is not neces sarily a sin. But it has the power to make you sin. Doubt simply says, “I need more information.” However, when doubt leads to unbelief, this is where sin enters the picture. It is never a crime to require more information, but make certain you are gaining that information from the correct source. Be careful that Satan does not seduce you into questioning the validity of the Word of God or God Himself. (See Genesis 3:1–7; Mark 11:23.) E nmeshments Enmeshment is a popularly used term in family therapy literature when speaking about codependence. It was made popular by the work of Salvador Minuchin. 2 Enmeshment refers to an extreme form of proximity and inten sity in family interactions that inevitably corrode and weaken boundaries that define individual autonomy until a kind of fusion occurs. This fusion creates a dysfunctional family culture that emotionally handicaps family members to

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