DEVOTION - Day 20

Colossians 2:8 (New International Version)

8 See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ.

We allow so many people into our lives through different means. Our friends, our classmates, our family, the TV characters, the music artists, etc… We listen to what they say and we make a decision whether or not we believe what they’re saying and ultimately whether we will adopt their principles and philosophies.

Some people will try to lead us toward a life that is all about immediate satisfaction. While others will try to make us believe that what we have and who we are aren’t good enough. And others will say verbally abusive and damaging things to us destroying any hope that we have for tomorrow.

What happens when we listen to these people in our lives is that they take us “captive.” Notice that the Scripture doesn’t just say that they influence us – it says they take us “captive.” They have control over us and they can cause us to do things that we may not otherwise do. In fact, they can cause us to make decisions that are not in line with what we know to be true.

For me, I used to buy into the philosophy that success is the equivalent of the biggest paycheck or the most accolades one could get. I was more concerned about fame and praise than I was in relationships or serving others. But, this verse calls us to the higher purpose – Christ.

So, who are you allowing into your life that shouldn’t be there? Who is holding you captive with their deception and hollowness? What principles do you believe and follow that are not in line with the truth of Jesus Christ? What area of your life do you need to break free from the bondage of influence from others?

Pray today that God will help you see the areas that you live in captivity. Ask Him to give you the strength to resist the ways of the world and follow His way. Finally, pray that God will use you as a positive influence in the lives of those around you – not as one who holds others captive.