The Rules of Engagement

The Rules of Engagement

spirits may seduce them into believing that God does not care and eventu ally they backslide. Another example is the power of the spoken word. Idle, capriciously spoken words will eventually manifest into reality. (See Proverbs 18:21.) You have probably heard of a self-fulfilling prophecy. For example: “I never have money at the end of the month,” then—you guessed it—when the end of the month comes, you do not have money. Or: “This always happens to me,” “If it ain’t one thing, it’s another,” “I’m sick and tired of this.” Eventually, you will be both sick and tired. F alse B urdens To be burdened for people and situations is expected of all saints, especially when it comes to the redemptive purpose of God being manifested. However, Satan wants to put false burdens upon you that cause undue stress, pressure, and discomfort. These burdens are easily distinguishable from the authentic ones in that they are heavy, often unbearable, and do not come from God. Jesus said in Matthew 11:29–30, “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” F alse E ntitlement False entitlement is a spirit that causes people to feel they deserve, have a right to, or have claim to something that is really not theirs. It could be a position, money, attention, a title, clothing, or just about anything. In the Bible, Satan used this weapon through Ahab against Naboth. Ahab wanted property that belong to Naboth and plotted and planned his demise. This spirit is relentless. It will not stop until its lust and covetousness are satiated. (See 1 Kings 21:1–16.) F alse E xpectations This one weapon, in particular, has been used to destroy many good rela tionships, ministries, and organizations. Expectations are good to have, particularly those that are reasonable and those that you have for yourself. But when they encroach upon another person’s freedom of choice or they are unknown to others, they can become a destructive element. Jesus lost many

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