DCLM Daily Manna, Tuesday September 15, 2015 by Pastor Kumuyi – Ungodly Influence

Topic: Ungodly Influence [Tuesday September 15, 2015]

Text: Acts 8:9-25

Key Verse: “And to him they had regard, because that of long time he had bewitched them with sorceries” (Acts 8:11).

There is a disturbing trend that a significant proportion of youths from decent, godly homes are getting involved in activities considered to be inappropriate, immoral and even illegal. One young man explained the influence of peer pressure on him thus: “I never wanted to smoke until I was offered one in a party which I could not reject or resist”.

Many youths face severe pressure to act in certain ways, dress in a particular style, smoke or drink and join certain groups because of ungodly influence. Except something positive is done to arrest the ugly trend, many youths may lose their godly heritage to the enemy. Samaria had been under siege by the ungodly influence of Simon the sorcerer who had bewitched them before the arrival of Philip, the evangelist. Simon also claimed to have believed under the preaching of Philip. But when Apostles Peter and John came from Jerusalem to Samaria and prayed for believers to be filled with the Holy Spirit, Simon also asked for the power. But Peter rebuked him saying, “Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money. Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God” (Acts 8:20,21).

Parents, Christian leaders and teachers must be very vigilant in guiding against ungodly influences in their homes, churches and places of work. The Scripture enjoins us not to believe every spirit, but to prove whether it is of God or not. Christians must not be gullible to believe every new and strange doctrine. Many people perform miracles, wonders, healings and magical arts. We should not be carried away by ungodly and satanic manifestations, but guide and protect our youths against so-called gospel trends which merely appeal to base sentiments.

Thought for the day: Evil communication corrupts good manner

Bible Reading in one Year: Numbers 16-18

DCLM Daily Manna was written by Pastor William Folorunso Kumuyi; is the founder and General Superintendent of the Deeper Life Bible Church situated at KM 42 on the busy Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Nigeria.