When the Devil Tries to Sell You What You Already Have

Well, howdy there! Now unlatch that there gate and come right on up to this ol’ front porch, friend. There’s a chair waitin’ right here just for you, provided that bossy lil’ ol’ wren over there hasn’t already claimed it for herself. Ain’t it somethin’ how we humans can go huntin’ for what we already possess, like an ol’ farm dog circlin’ the barn lookin’ for the bone still hangin’ out of its mouth?

That’s about what happened in the Garden of Eden.

The serpent told Adam and Eve, “Ye shall be as gods” (Genesis 3:5). Trouble was, God had already created ‘em “in His own image” (Genesis 1:27). The enemy tempted ‘em to grasp for something God had already graciously given to ‘em.

And, friend, he ain’t retired that trick yet either.

He still whispers, “You plum need more recognition. More importance. More applause. Then, you’ll sho-nuff’ finally be somebody.”

But Colossians 2:10 says, “Ye are complete in Him.” Not almost complete. Not complete once everybody notices you. Complete in Christ.

First John 3:1 adds, “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God.” That there’s your identity. You downright belong to the Father.

Even Jesus began His ministry with the Father declarin’ His love over Him in Matthew 3:17. Belovedness plum came before any miracles, crowds, and public accomplishment.

When you know whose you are, comparison plum starts losin’ its grip. You don’t have to strut around like an ol’ turkey gobbler admirin’ its own reflection in a tractor bumper. Grace has already given you something applause never can, belonging.

Father, help me remember who I am in Christ. Silence every voice that tells me I must prove my worth. Teach me to live humbly, gratefully, and securely as one who belongs completely to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Alright now, friend, mosey on off this here porch with your head up and your heart settled. A lil’ ol’ possum don’t become an eagle by climbin’ a taller fence. A pine tree don’t ask the blackberry bush whether it’s tall enough. God made each to be plum what He intended. Quit graspin’ for an identity heaven has already done given you. You don’t need to become somebody because you downright already belong to Somebody.

With joy,

Gwen