A Dangerous Road

1 Peter 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; for your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.

The man wearing the turban on his head sat on the floor with his legs crossed. He stared and stared at the glass of water on the floor in front of him. As he focused and concentrated the glass began to tremble, then to shake and then it overturned, spilling the water on the ground. The young lady sat in the same position and watched, her eyes popping with wonder and admiration. Then she put her hands together as he did and began to chant.

A lot of persons today are into meditation. Yoga and the practices of Eastern religions have become very popular. They teach us to “get in touch with our inner selves”; that the “spirit”, which is an important part of the self is good and powerful, but that it does not get to work because we are usually out of touch with it. We are told that all that we need to be successful and happy in life is right there inside of us and that if we only believe in ourselves and our natural forces we will succeed. In addition, the human mind is considered to be so powerful that if we meditate and empty ourselves of all distractions we can do almost anything (remember the glass of water).

But this is dangerous teaching. First of all, the Bible teaches that we are not naturally good and that to depend on self is to surely die. Second, the only time there is good in us is when Jesus lives in us and places His goodness there. Belief is important, but not belief in ourselves. We must believe in God. Then, self confidence is ok for “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”.

So, what about the glass of water? Didn’t it really overturn? Isn’t there power in the mind? Yes, these supernatural things can happen, but not because the mind is powerful. No, they are the result of contact with spirits. There is the Spirit of God and then there are also demons. If the supernatural force does not come from God, it can only be from the devil. Run from it! If you meditate, let it be on the goodness of God and the power of salvation. Any other route leads to destruction.

Dear Lord, today, every day, protect us from deception and from the power of Satan. Fill our lives with Your holy power we pray, in Jesus’ name, amen.