Decoy


Reflections by the Sea © Betsy  Ore Glass
April 15, 2009

Peter replied, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” -Acts 2:38 NIV

The definition of a decoy is something used to lure someone or something into danger. Added meaning is also to entrap, snare and entice. A decoy, as we know it, is an artificial bird that is set in the water by the hunter, as though it were feeding, in hopes that other birds will join in. Then the hunter, who is concealed nearby, is in range to complete his task. Decoys, many of which are skillfully hand- painted and carved to an exact likeness, can even be motorized today. Decoy making has become an artful business for many and a fun hobby for others.

Sometimes it is hard to distinguish between whether something is real or not. Even to the untrained eye. If we can see it and touch it, we can probably spot the trademarks of authenticity, but not always. In our spiritual life, even more difficult to discern at times, is the voice that powers our thoughts and actions. Is it the Holy Spirit talking to us, who guides and directs us; or is it the sharp disguise of the enemy that masquerades the road to temptation and sin? Knowing that we have heard the voice of the Holy Spirit brings clarity and peace to any circumstance. The voice of the Holy Spirit can also warn us of danger up ahead and we should heed that advice and act on it. God sent the Holy Spirit to comfort and guide us. The enemy is the great imitator and he uses many disguises. He is the master decoy! But this much I do know. If it is the Holy Spirit’s voice guiding us, God will confirm it. He will send His message of guidance to us a second time, for instance, when a trusted friend offers the same wisdom. Or when a scripture that we come across in the Bible jumps out at us with a confirming answer. It is in some of those areas that God will confirm His message. We are not on our own. God is always there, ready with His perfect wisdom and advice and confirmation. If you forgive anyone, I also forgive him. And what I have forgiven--if there was anything to forgive--I have forgiven in the sight of Christ for your sake, in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes. 2 Corinthians 2:10-11 NIV