We Have Only One Rescuer, One Helper

We visited a church while out of town and the message presented great material.  I enjoy analogies, as if you have not noticed through my writings, and the preacher, used various ones to teach.  During his sermon he spoke about the Stockholm Syndrome.  Psychologists use this term to refer a real phenomenon wherein hostages shift into a state of empathy toward their captor.  The enemy slowly becomes a friend in the eyes of the victim.  Abuse, lies, dangerous situations and horrific natures of the oppressor are now seen as acts of kindness.  Victims may even defend the captor creating an emotional bond between them. 

The victim's eyesight hinders and slowly blindness takes over.  They allow the oppressor to lead the way and believe it to be the right path.  Destruction occurs with each step taken.  One lie at a time replaces any Truth existing in the victims thoughts. 

As a passerby or an outsider; would you just allow this to happen?  If the victim were your child, best friend, family member or spouse; would you sit on the side lines and do nothing?

"Be careful, or you will be enticed to turn away and worship other gods and bow down to them." (Deuteronomy 11:16)

"For since the message spoken through angels was binding, and every violation and disobedience received its just punishment,  how shall we escape if we ignore so great a salvation? This salvation, which was first announced by the Lord, was confirmed to us by those who heard him.  God also testified to it by signs, wonders and various miracles, and by gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed according to his will." (Hebrews 2:2-4)

"Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell." (Matthew 10:28) 

The enemy prowls around looking to devour and take hostage our joy.  Some of the lies seem so enticing.  We must stay focused on our true Rescuer.  Steer clear of other gods.  We can convince ourselves that following them is the answer, the right way to travel.  Continually seek His Word and make sure each decision made follows His teaching.

Satan holds so many dirty schemes up his sleeves to try and destroy our walk with God.  Remember God is our strength, our Helper at all times.  God will bring others in our path to use as teachers of Truth.  Those individuals may have experienced similar trials or fell victim to the Stockholm Syndrome and are trying to save you from the same destructive pattern.  Humble yourself and listen. 

Teach others you meet.  Do not just watch another veer off the path.  Speak boldly on God's behalf and witness to others.  Use the Truths spoke to you to help others follow closer to God.  Be God's hands and feet each day.

God, thank you for this day.  Thank You for rescuing me from the hostage situation I found myself in for years.  Humble me so I may hear your message from others around me.  Keep me focused on Truth to avoid a hostile takeover again.  Though my feet may slip, I know the closer I walk with You, I will clearly see how to get back on track.  Thank You for loving me.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig