Don’t Give The Devil A Foothold

Do not . . . give place to the devil.

Ephesians 4:26–27

It’s easy to allow the devil entry into our lives. The King James Version of the Bible translates Ephesians 4:27 as, “Neither give place to the devil.” Better is the New American Standard’s, “Do not give the devil an opportunity.”

But perhaps the most graphic is the New International Version’s, “Do not give the devil a foothold.” The American Heritage Dictionary says that a foothold is “a firm or secure position that provides a base for further advancement.” All we need do is give the devil a foothold—a little place where he can bide his time and wait for the opportunity to advance further—to ultimately find ourselves in big spiritual trouble.

Unconfessed bouts of anger, pride, deceit, lust, envy—or any sin—may seem small to you, but they are just what the devil is looking for. If need be, confess them now, and purpose to leave no place for the devil to get a foothold in your life.