“Don’t look now, but there’s something funny going on over there at the bank, George. I’ve never really seen one, but that’s got all the earmarks of a run.”
Ernie the cab driver.
Evil has an earmark—a distinguishing characteristic—because it will always seek to ‘eat the lunch’ or cleverly outwit and defeat God’s children. After all, Jesus describes satan as “the thief” who comes to rob, steal, and destroy (John 10:10). So, even though we are aware of the spiritual battle between good and evil and the fight for our souls, believers are usually not ready for just how ruthless a person motivated by unrighteous evil can be to others.
Satan is a deceiver who disguises himself as an angel of light—appears as something good—even though his intention is really unrighteous (2 Cor. 11:14). For this reason, we need to place our trust and hope in Christ who is much more powerful and intends to use for good what the enemy sent to bring harm (Gen. 5:20). “If you feel like you’re at the end of your rope, tie a knot and hang on! Because God is a God of miracles, and He’s holding the other end” (quote Pat Hicks).
As we continue with our devotion based on the movie, “It’s a Wonderful Life,” we will pause to think about the scene in which George Bailey [Building and Loan owner] and his wife, Mary Hatch, are supposed to get on a train for their honeymoon. They are so excited and looking forward to a wonderful and even extravagant time in New York and then on to Bermuda. However, what started out with a plan for fun, pleasure, and luxury turns out to be a time for sacrifice.
While heading for the train, their friend and cab driver notices a problem that spells trouble for Bailey Building and Loan—the bank has called the business’s loan. Mr. Potter, the owner of the bank and corrupt business man, begins to take advantage of how this affects the people of Bedford Falls. Under Potter’s direction, the swindling of people begins. George cannot run away from the trouble or problems this situation is causing others. The honeymoon will have to wait, because George decides to follow wisdom rather than his feelings. He chooses to infuse the people of Bedford Falls with heart and hope.
Like George and Mary, we cannot run away from our problems, either. We cannot ignore a problem or an unpleasant reality. Instead, we must rise in the courage of Christ and reach for the wisdom he alone can give to overcome evil with good (Ro. 12:21). Short-term pain for long-term gain. The Lord wants to help us look beyond our present moments to the longer road ahead; to see beyond fear and avoidance and find spiritual victory.
If you are dealing with a difficult situation and you are tempted to run, remember Jesus loves you and he is ready to help you be victorious in such a way that it touches the lives of others around you. Place your hope in the Savior. Read the Living Word of God, listen to the Spirit, so you can make a wise choice that reaches beyond yourself.
OT Reading: Deuteronomy 31:6 NLT “So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the Lord your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you.”
NT Reading: Romans 12:21 NLT “Don’t let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good.”
Prayer: Lord, thank you for allowing life to challenge us. We need to grow in endurance. Believers need to face even the unrighteous work of the enemy and see it as a way to rise in courage and spiritual strength. We are called to be witnesses of the truth that you never leave or forsake us. Help us to care as much for others as we do about ourselves. In Jesus’ name. Amen.