SORRY, NICE TRY, SATAN

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The coming of the lawless one is by the activity of Satan with all power and false signs and wonders, and with all wicked deception for those who are perishing, because they refused to love the truth and so be saved. Therefore God sends them a strong delusion, so that they may believe what is false, in order that all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.
2 Thessalonians 2:9‭-‬12 ESV

¶In the previous chapter, 2 Thessalonians 1:11, Paul has just called it a high pleasure for us see God's purpose fulfilled in our lives, that the Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in us, and us in him. But for this pleasure there is a strong competition. The object of the most vulgar of desires can be dressed up in the most charming and seductive outfits that compete with the high pleasures. It is so easy for those who deny the work of the Spirit to embrace the world, the flesh, and the pride of life. These temptations are normal for the world. There is no need to be angry and lash out when Satan is doing what is in his nature to do. Just say to temptation "sorry, nice try".

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