Sunday’s Blessing – 6/7/2026 – Imitation or the Real Thing
Several months ago, I purchased tickets for a show which I thought was a cover band play popular country rock from the seventies. The show was out of town, so we took the opportunity for an overnight stay to get away for a little bit.
Last night when we arrived at the show, we realized it was not a cover band. There were actually four popular groups from the seventies playing live. It turned what I had hoped was an entertaining night of music into a fabulous experience. It was a really good evening.
As I pondered on things, which I’m very prone to do, I realized something about spiritual life. All the enemy has to offer is fake. He has nothing original, only cheap substitutes for what God has made available to His creation. Jesus experienced a time of temptation when He first began His earthly ministry. He had just completed forty days of fasting when the enemy approached Him with three challenges.
2. Cast yourself down from the pinnacle of the temple so the angels can save you. (Desires of the eyes)
3. Bow down and worship me and I will give you the kingdoms of this world. (Pride of life)
Each time Jesus responded with scripture, stating the truth for the false image satan presented to him. 1 John 2:16 tells us, “For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father but is from the world”. Jesus rejected the imitation by stating what is real: “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” “You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.” “You shall worship the Lord your God, and him only you shall serve."
It's easy to miss the real vs. a substitute. Computer hackers count on this every day and swindle billions from unsuspecting people every day. How much more vital is it in the spirit realm, where the enemy tries to get us to accept a fake instead of experiencing the reality of God’s goodness. It’s imperative for us to spend time with our Father so we can hear His voice clearly to avoid the dangers in missing His words.
Today’s Blessing:
My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. John 10:27-28 (ESV)He shall seduce with flattery those who violate the covenant, but the people who know their God shall stand firm and take action. Daniel 11:32 (ESV)I know where you dwell, where Satan’s throne is. Yet you hold fast my name, and you did not deny my faith Revelation 2:13a (ESV)I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, John 10:14 (ESV)
