satan – Grits with Grace

Family, friends, life, school days, Scripture, spiritual battles, thankful

Playing Army!

Posted on May 14, 2025May 8, 2025 by Dewayne Taylor

“A thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I have come so that they may have life and have it in abundance.” John 10:10

It is an 8mm movie memory. Like so many families we had a home movie camera growing up. It is so much fun to go back and watch some of the ones that I have. One that I remember so well from my childhood days was a clip of my nephew Little Joe. As you can imagine, since there was a Little Joe, there must have been a Big Joe…and there was. He was one of my older brothers who is no longer with us, and he had a son we called Little Joe. Anyway, in one of the movies, it shows Little Joe, and he is wearing a full, miniature Army fatigue uniform. My big brother Joe had been in the Army, so it was only fitting to see Little Joe dressed like his dad.

In the film clip, Little Joe is marching like a soldier. Rigid…almost at attention as he marched, with his little face sternly looking at the camera…he looked the part. He was probably five which means all of this was a zillion years ago. Thinking of those days, I remembered, once again, how things have changed. When I was growing up, playing Army was a regular thing…and we took it seriously. We didn’t have uniforms, but we were armed to the teeth.

Our arsenal included two different kinds of bullets. First, there were those from the chinaberry tree. This tree produced hundreds, if not thousands, of green berries the size of small marbles. The other bullet came from an evergreen that grew in our yard. They were about the same size but had little pointy things. Both were plentiful and effective. We would fill our pockets and then head for the woods…hurling them at one another. But there was more.

We also had dirt clods. In those days, it seemed there was always construction going on around us and of course that meant digging and digging meant dirt clods. We would gather at a selected building site, divide into small teams, get behind a dirt pile and lob dirt “grenades” at one another. We would hurl and duck or duck and hurl and we had a blast except for when a clod hit us in head. Then, well, it wasn’t fun anymore.

Those building sites also provided a ready selection of pretend weapons…usually surveyor sticks. Some were long and made great swords and some were wedge shaped and made great machine guns. The effectiveness of the weapon depended on how good the sound effects were. We would play long, play hard and then come home dirty. Baths were essential and not optional.

Those days of playing army were some of the best memories of my childhood. Gratefully I was also privileged to serve twelve years in the real Air Force and those days, too, hold so many of my life’s special memories. But what I thought we should learn today is the fact that while playing army was fun when I was a boy, there is still a war going on today…and it’s not play. I am learning that there is a battle being waged for so many of the things that we value most in life. Not the least of these are our faith and families.

Whether you believe in the spirit realm or not, whether you believe in a God or a devil or not, you had better believe that there are things that want nothing more than to wage war against you and what you hold dear. Sometimes it is a spirit of mediocrity, sometimes it might be a busy lifestyle or perhaps it is a drive to own the things we drive, or live in, or wear. Perhaps it is a deluge of small things that when added up will cost us…and cost us dearly.

In the Christian New Testament, a young Jewish Rabbi and Messiah named Jesus spoke about a thief and what he does. Why not think for a few minutes what identities you might assign to this thief. Look at the things I wrote about above. Now listen to the rest of what Jesus said, “The thief comes to steal, kill and destroy.” There you go…boom.

Thieves steal but they can do more, much more, so we must be on guard. The good news is this is one battle we don’t have to face by ourselves. That same Messiah who defeated death and rose from the dead is real, willing and able to help. All we have to is ask. One more thing. Don’t confuse Jesus with religion or even church. They might be related but the answer lies with the Man and nothing else. All we have to do is ask. He wants to help you guard what really matters and fight those life battles that are just too big for us on our own. No matter what we face, no matter the fight we can be sure that, “He’s got this.” Bro. Dewayne

life, missions, prayer, Scripture, spiritual battles, wisdom

Dead, Dying and Defeated

Posted on April 8, 2025April 3, 2025 by Dewayne Taylor

“A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.” Ephesians 6:10-12

Ross Perot once said, “If you see a snake, just kill it—don’t appoint a committee on snakes.” I know, I know, snakes are God’s creation but for some of us the only good snake is a dead snake. I am one of those. I was reading a devotion this week and it told a story about a South American missionary. I don’t know if it is true or not—but it sure teaches us a good lesson about us and the devil. So it seems the missionary woke up one morning to find a giant anaconda snake in his little house. Now this was no ordinary snake. This dude was over 25 feet long and there he was right there in his house—curled up—apparently taking a nap.

Well, as you can imagine it scared him to death. He quietly climbed out the window and went and told all his villager friends, “Come and help me!” So they went back to the house with him and looked through the window. Sure enough, there it was. They were discussing what to do when one of villagers finally said, “I know what to do.” He ran back to his house, grabbed his rifle, stuck it through the window, and pulled the trigger. BLAM! His aim was perfect and he shot the giant snake right in the head. But that wasn’t quite the end of the story.

The snake, rather than going quietly like a good boy, started thrashing around literally tearing the inside of the house apart. The villagers ran to a safe distance and stood there in disbelief as they heard sounds of crashing and destruction coming from the house. Then, slowly the sounds became softer and slower and finally—there was silence. When they finally had the courage to go inside the house, they saw that the snake lying still on the floor but they also saw the incredible damage and chaos that the snake had caused as he gave up the ghost.

If you are like me there are two things in this story that are very important. First, sorry, but the only good snake is a dead snake. Second, even though the snake had a mortal wound to the head, he still managed to cause a lot of damage. Now I know and you know that the Bible says that Satan, the great serpent, is defeated. But wait, you might be saying something must be wrong at my house—because Satan seems to be wreaking havoc in my life, in my relationships, and with sin struggles and all that kind of stuff.”

Well, the truth is we live in a season when the evil one has received a mortal wound to the head—Jesus took care of that on the cross and with His resurrection. The devil’s final defeat is real and soon enough—and it will be permanent. In the meantime, our struggle with spiritual evil will continue as Satan attempts to thrash around in our lives. We need to know and believe, though, that not only is he defeated—we are truly victorious. Satan can have no more victory than we choose to give him.

We would be wise to take Paul’s counsel. In Ephesians 6:10-12, he writes, “A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.” Though wounded mortally, he is a thrashing, dying foe. He stills wants to mess up our lives and cause as much destruction as he can—but he can’t win—dead, dying and defeated snakes can never win.

So, if it seems the great serpent is messing with your life—just remember his fate is sealed. Jesus took care of him a long time ago. We can rest in knowing that no matter what, “He’s got this.” Bro. Dewayne

Family, food, friends, gratitude, Halloween, life, loving others, prayer, priorities, school days, Scripture, Southern born, spiritual battles, thankful, Trials

Trick or Treat

Posted on October 31, 2024October 18, 2024 by Dewayne Taylor

Jesus told him, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” John 14:6

Free Candy. Holidays have always been special to me. The king of the mountain is the one where we celebrate the birth of a King. Of course, it took me awhile to get where I began to understand it wasn’t all about presents or a guy in a red suit, but I did eventually get a better understanding. Oh, and then there is the one where the King that was born on Christmas defeats the big bad king—Death. Well, and yes, it took me awhile to figure that one out too. Turns out, it wasn’t about a bunny and free candy. I’m slow but I usually, eventually, get there.

We could go and on…Memorial Day is not only about cookouts, and Independence Day is about the price of freedom and not just fireworks, and finally, Thanksgiving is not just being about turkeys and pies. There is nothing wrong with all of that—it’s just important that we remember what the main thing is—and camp there. So, today, Halloween, what is that all about? Well, when I was a kid, it was about one thing and one thing only—free candy. We would dress up in whatever was handy—no bought costumes in those days—just hobos and pirates—grab the bag that Momma had made us and hit the streets running. We would go from house to house, from door to door, shouting those magic words, “Trick or Treat,” and stick our bag out and the candy came flying. Oh, and you better believe we said, “Thank you,” cause Momma taught us to. Yup, in those days, things were just different. There never was a trick…it wasn’t even an idle threat; it was just part of what we said.

I guess today all that has changed. Today, Halloween has a bad rap. The age of innocence is long gone. Televisions and theaters are filled with horrible horror films and the whole holiday is now considered by most Jesus people to be a pagan sin feast…and maybe it is. On the other hand, I think it is also Reformation Day…the day Martin Luther took a stand about God and grace. But there is that one thing that has changed. There is that one thing we have hung on to and that is those three words, “Trick or Treat.” I’m glad those are still around because tucked away they hold some big truths.

First, all this sin stuff started in the Garden of Eden when Satan tricked Eve into believing him and doubting God. He was so convincing that she began to believe that God was holding out. He was the good guy and God…He was selfish and wanted to keep everything for Himself. Trick, trick,trick. But thankfully that is not the end of the story—for God had a treat for Satan’s trick. God sent Truth into the world in the form of His Son Jesus. Much later after the garden, when Jesus told us He was the Way, the Truth and the Life” He meant exactly that. The truth is…He is Truth. No tricks, no deception, no kidding…He is the antidote to the devil’s lie. Believe the Truth and you live—believe the lie and die forever. Wow.

But wait…there is more. You see not only is there the trick and not only is there the Truth…there is that little connecting word, “or.” You see, the word “or” makes sure we understand that there is a choice here. We don’t have to be stuck with the lie and no, we don’t have to take the Truth…though we would be foolish not to do so. There is free will. God offers eternal life to anyone, and Satan offers death to everyone. God offers eternal life to anyone who will believe in Him and ask, and the enemy offers death to everyone else. Listen, don’t be tricked by the trickster, the consequences of a wrong choice are just disastrous.

So, I hope in your part of the world you can let your kids load up on free candy. I’m sure your dentist will be very happy. Be careful and be safe and steer way clear of all the junk that is out there—and trust me—there is plenty. Oh, and don’t forget the lesson from those three small words, “Trick or Treat.” Remember that the trickster is a liar and offers spiritual death and the Treater is the Truth and offers eternal life. Oh, and don’t forget three more important words, “He’s got this.” Bro. Dewayne

Family, fear, friends, Grace, gratitude, life, love, loving others, missions, priorities, Scripture, sovereignty of God, thankful, travel, Trials

Sleeping in the Grass

Posted on March 27, 2024March 26, 2024 by Dewayne Taylor

Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.”
1 Peter 5:8

We found him sleeping in the grass. Sound asleep. A few years ago, I had the privilege of going to Uganda and learning about Watoto ministries. The trip allowed me to see the incredible work of Watoto up front and personal. They work with orphaned babies and children as well as single mothers. They raise the kids to become Christian leaders and help the mothers provide for their families.

Part of the trip involved us going to Northern Uganda to see the work in that part of the country. It also gave us the opportunity to take a safari and see some animals in the wild. You are on their turf and their terms. We saw a large variety of animals but there was one we all wanted to see. The lion. It is like the holy grail of safaris–to see the “king of the jungle.”

Our guide that day just happened to be one of the park rangers, so he had access to areas others did not. So off we went. Before long there was a report of a lion sleeping in a tree. We went cross country and before long, bam, there was a lion…sound asleep. Well, it was incredible–asleep or not. We snapped about a hundred pictures of our sleeping friend and moved on.

We drove for about 30 minutes and another report came of a group of lions about 50 yards off the road. Our guide, the ranger, told the driver to drive though this ditch and he did. Sure enough, there were the lions. There were about five or six of these magnificent beasts–all sound asleep. What’s up with lions and sleeping?

Well, it turns out that lions sleep about 20 hours a day. They hunt, eat and sleep. That’s about it. Our driver got within five or six feet of the sleeping feline. Our guide shouts, the driver honks the horn and nothing. And then he does something totally unexpected. He throws water on the lion.

What? Excuse me? Well, the king of the jungle, who turned out to be a queen, sits up, yawns, and looks at us. Hmmm…this lion thing is not what it is cracked up to be. You would be tempted to think that every lion was like this lion. That would be a mistake.

You see, there are some nasty lions out there and they would like to invite you to lunch. Lions are vicious predators and will eat you given the chance. I’ve watched enough National Geographic shows to know that not all lions are created equal. I also know this. Not all lions live in Africa. In fact, there is one who lives close–very close. He doesn’t have a mane or a tail, but he does have an appetite. His name isn’t Mufasa or Simba. It is Satan.

The Bible, in 1 Peter 5:8, says this, “Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.” On the safari we stayed alert looking for a lion. In life, we need to stay alert because the lion is looking for us. And guess what? He’s looking for lunch.

Peter said Satan is like a roaring lion. If you’ve studied lions a bit you know that a lion doesn’t roar when it’s stalking prey. A lion roars for two different reasons. One, he is declaring his dominance. He is claiming his territory. This is mine. He also roars to invite others to join his pride. The devil does both.

Satan is always roaring saying “this is mine and that is mine” but nothing is truly his. Nothing. It belongs to a much larger, much stronger Lion–the Lion of Judah. Satan is a liar–remember that. He wouldn’t know the truth if it stared him in the face. No pun intended.

He is also looking for others to join his pride. He is looking for people who are discouraged and disheartened with life and with God and is inviting them to join him. Joining him is a big mistake. He is a loser, and he knows it. That is why he is roaring so loudly. His time is limited, and he wants to take as many as he can with him.

Now if you are a believer, Satan can’t steal your salvation, but he can steal your peace, your character, your witness, your family, your integrity–well the list goes on and on. That is why Peter said, “Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith.” Peter knew from experience just how good Satan is at taking what is not rightfully his.

Jesus said in John 10:10 “The thief comes to steal, kill and destroy.” That’s the enemy but Jesus wasn’t done speaking. He goes on to say, “I have come to give you life and life more abundantly.” He is saying, “if you trust Me, the Lion of Judah, you can rest in Me. I’m never asleep and I’m never outgunned. I’ve got this.” And He does. Bro. Dewayne

Christmas, Family, fear, forgiveness, friends, Grace, gratitude, life, love, loving others, Military memories, prayer, Scripture, thankful, Trials, wisdom

A Day That Lives in Infamy

Posted on December 7, 2023December 4, 2023 by Dewayne Taylor

If a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand.” Mark 3:25

Today is December 7th. Each year, on this date, I intentionally publish this story because of the story and the truth it shares. We must never forget what happened that day, the ones who gave their lives nor the powerful truths that still speak to us. I hope you will read it again, with fresh eyes and an open heart.

“December 7th. A day that will live in infamy.” Though it was before my time I know the story well. It was a beautiful morning in Pearl Harbor. Those who weren’t painting the ships or swabbing the decks of the powerful U.S. Navy Pacific Fleet were home enjoying a round of golf or a tropical breakfast. And then, at 7:55 in the morning local time, without warning or provocation, bombers, fighters, and torpedo bombers of the Imperial Japanese Navy swept in. They began to systematically destroy the American fleet and its supporting aircraft. That morning thousands of sailors and civilians lost their lives and thousands more were wounded. Over eleven hundred sailors died instantly when a single bomb hit the ammunition magazine on the battleship Arizona.

In an hour and fifteen minutes the attack was over, and the United States was drawn into a global war. The nation had long been divided over what role the United States should take in the war that raged in Europe. That was all settled when, after the attack, Japan declared war on America and Hitler as an ally of Japan did the same. Like it or not, the United States was embroiled in a war that would last for almost four years and cost the lives of 407,316 Americans with another 671,278 wounded. But by the grace of Almighty God, in the end, America and her Allies were victorious in defeating the tyranny of the fascist governments.

Thirty-eight percent of those who served were volunteers and sixty-one percent were drafted. The average enlisted person was paid $71.00 per month while the average officer was paid $203. Drafted or volunteer, officer or enlisted, they were all willing to put their lives on the line for the cause of freedom and the cause of defeating countries bent on oppressing those weaker than they. Many valuable lessons were learned during that time—lessons that we must not forget.

First, is the power of unity. Before the Pearl Harbor attack the nation was clearly divided over the war. After the attack, the nation pulled together on a unified front to protect and defend—first the United States, and second, the millions of innocent people being oppressed by Germany, Japan, and Italy. It is tragic that it took Pearl Harbor to bring the nation together but if America had entered the war divided, the outcome would have been much different. Today, we need to understand that it is time to come together again. Jesus said that a house divided against itself cannot stand. Neither can families. Neither can churches. We must come together, or we will fall together.

Second, is the power of owning it. As in any national tragedy, the event happens and almost immediately the finger pointing begins. Pick the historical event and the pattern is sadly the name. Political parties and even ordinary, everyday people will use tragedy to promote their cause. We have seen it on the national front. We have seen it on the local front. We have seen it in churches. It is not a time to point fingers, but rather a time to rise to help solve what is broken. Eighty-two years ago today, December 7, America rose to the challenge. I wonder if we will have the wisdom to do the same today?

Last, is the power of wisdom. There is not much debate that storm clouds were gathering in the days leading up to December 7th. Some would say that there was blatant evidence that an attack was coming. Sadly, those warning signs were largely ignored, and the cost was horrendous. Today, right now, there is something we need to remember. There is one enemy, and it is not our neighbor, not our brother or sister in church, and not even the person who belongs to another political party. The enemy is Satan, who wants nothing more than to destroy us. Jesus said, “The thief comes to steal, kill and destroy.” It was true when He said it…it is true today. The second part of that verse is filled with hope. Jesus said, “I have come that you might have life and have it more abundantly.”

You see, God is for us. He is very aware of Satan’s tricks and schemes, and He wants us to be victorious over him. That is what Christmas and Easter were all about. God became flesh and lived among us and then ultimately and deliberately died on a Roman cross that all people, regardless of nationality, race, or economic station, could be forgiven and have eternal life. With the wisdom of God, we don’t have to have a “spiritual” Pearl Harbor. With God’s help we can come together. With God’s help we can be victorious.

You see, it’s not about religion. It is about a relationship with the God who made it all. And with the relationship comes hope, comes peace, comes forgiveness, comes unity. If we are wise enough to believe what God says, and act on what He teaches, our best days won’t be in the rearview mirror but rather ahead. So, this Christmas season, let the Prince of Peace bring His peace into your world. Rest in Him. He’s got this. Bro. Dewayne.

Family, forgiveness, friends, Grace, gratitude, Halloween, life, love, Scripture, Southern born, thankful

Trick or True?

Posted on October 23, 2023October 22, 2023 by Dewayne Taylor

[He] does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he tells a lie, he speaks from his own nature, because he is a liar and the father of lies.” John 8:44b

In those days it was one of my favorite holidays. Things change…we all get that but back in the day, Halloween was fun, it was candy profitable and we loved it. There were church parties where we all dressed up in costumes. And those costumes weren’t bought in a store…they were made from wherever was handy. We would have hotdogs and chips and there was always a contest for the best costume. Come trick or treat night we would again don our costumes. Mine was invariably a hobo—I just went to dad’s closet and boom—I was ready to go.

One of my favorite things was going to Momma’s cedar chest. It was a magical place where so many cool things were stored. It was filled with once-a-year delights and special treasures. One time my daddy had to make a trip of Ecuador for work. He was a mechanic at the Navy base and one of their planes broke down in South America. He was selected to make the trip and trust me—it was the trip of a lifetime for him. He bought everyone souvenirs and mine was a poncho and a short bullwhip. They were stored in the cedar chest for safe keeping.

But there was something else in the cedar chest—our trick or treat bags. Momma had made one for each of us out of cloth scraps and in my mind’s eye I can still see them. At the right time, Momma would open the cedar chest and get them out for the special night. Now these are different days but back then as soon as it began to get dusky, we would hit the streets of our neighborhood. It was a wonderful time of innocence—no danger, no dark tricks…we were safe and free, and we would run the streets until the porch lights were all out and our bags were full.

Things are tragically different now. The meaning has changed, the danger is real and well, it’s just not the same. When our daughters were small enough to trick or treat it was still safe, but we would never think of letting them go out by themselves and now, today, certainly not the grandkids. I wish they could have known the Halloween I knew but alas it is gone. Things do in fact change.

Sadly, there is something that hasn’t changed. The trick part of trick or treat. Back when I was, oh, ten or so, we might, maybe take a bar of soap and soap a window or two—but even that was rare and brought a twinge of guilt. But those memories are not what I am thinking about. I am talking about the ultimate, most evil trickster—the devil himself. If you know anything about him you know he is a great deceiver and he loves to lead, or drag, people down a dark path of regret and consequences. It’s who he is and it is something he was done since the beginning of time. Just ask Eve and Adam. He promises the best treat—which is a lie—and never tells the rest of the story—the trick. Like he told Eve, “Go ahead and have a bite—you won’t die.” Well, we know how that turned out.

Well, I know Halloween is still a few days off, but the big truth is for every day. Never, ever, trust what Satan offers. Jesus said he is a liar and the father of it and trust me—Jesus always tells the truth. What Jesus offers—love, forgiveness, grace, and peace—are all real and all can be ours for the asking. He is the treat of a lifetime—with no small print and no tricks. You can believe it—He’s got this. Bro. Dewayne

Family, fear, forgiveness, friends, Grace, gratitude, life, loving others, prayer, Scripture, sovereignty of God, thankful, USA

December 7th

Posted on December 7, 2022December 4, 2022 by Dewayne Taylor

If a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand.” Mark 3:25

“December 7th. A day that will live in infinity.” Though it was before my time I know the story well. It was a beautiful morning in Pearl Harbor. Those who weren’t painting the ships or swabbing the decks of the powerful U.S. Navy Pacific Fleet were home enjoying a round of golf or a tropical breakfast. And then, at 7:55 in the morning local time, without warning or provocation, bombers, fighters and torpedo bombers of the Imperial Japanese Navy swept in. They began to systematically destroy the American fleet and its supporting aircraft. That morning thousands of sailors and civilians lost their lives and thousands more were wounded. Over eleven hundred sailors died instantly when a single bomb hit the ammunition magazine on the battleship Arizona.

In an hour and fifteen minutes the attack was over and the United States was drawn into a global war. The nation had long been divided over what role the United States should take in the war that raged in Europe. That was all settled when, after the attack, Japan declared war on America and Hitler as an ally of Japan did the same. Like it or not, the United States was embroiled in a war that would last for almost four years and cost the lives of 407,316 Americans with another 671,278 wounded. But by the grace of Almighty God, in the end, America and her Allies were victorious in defeating the tyranny of the fascist governments.

First, is the power of unity. Before the Pearl Harbor attack the nation was clearly divided over the war. After the attack, the nation pulled together on a unified front to protect and defend—first the United States, and second, the millions of innocent people being oppressed by Germany, Japan, and Italy. It is tragic that it took a Pearl Harbor to bring the nation together but if America had entered the war divided, the outcome would have been much different. Today, we need to understand that it is time to come together again. Jesus said that a house divided against itself cannot stand. Neither can families. Neither can churches. We must come together, or we will fall together.

Second, is the power of owning it. As in any national tragedy, the event happens and almost immediately the finger pointing begins. Pick the historical event and the pattern is sadly the name. Political parties and even ordinary, everyday people will use a tragedy to promote their cause. We have seen it on the national front. We have seen it on the local front. We have seen it in the churches. It is not a time to point fingers, but rather a time to rise to help solve what is broken. Eighty-one years ago today, December 7, America rose to the challenge. I wonder if we will have the wisdom to do the same today.

Family, food, friends, gratitude, Halloween, life, love, loving others, prayer, Scripture, thankful, Trials

Trick and Treat

Posted on October 31, 2022October 29, 2022 by Dewayne Taylor

Jesus told him, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” John 14:6

Free Candy. Holidays have always been special to me. Of course, the king of the mountain is the one where we celebrate the birth of a King. Of course, it took me awhile to get where I began to understand it wasn’t all about presents or a guy in a red suit, but I did eventually get a better understanding. Oh, and then there is the one where the King that was born on Christmas defeats the big bad king—Death. Well, and yes, it took me awhile to figure that one out too. Turns out, it wasn’t about a bunny and free candy. I’m slow but I usually, eventually, get there.

We could go and on…Memorial Day is not only about cookouts, but Independence Day is also about the price of freedom and not just fireworks, and finally, Thanksgiving is not just being about turkeys and pies. There is nothing wrong with all of that—it’s just important that we remember what the main thing is—and camp there. So, today, Halloween, what is that all about? Well, when I was a kid, it was about one thing and one thing only—free candy. We would dress up in whatever was handy—no bought costumes in those days—just hobos and pirates—grab the bag that momma had made us and hit the streets running. We would go from house to house, from door to door, shouting those magic words, “Trick or Treat,” and stick our bag out and the candy came flying. Oh, and you better believe we said, “Thank you,” cause Momma taught us to. Yup, in those days, things were just different. There never was a trick…it wasn’t even an idle threat; it was just part of what we said.

First, all this sin stuff started in the Garden of Eden when Satan tricked Eve into believing him and doubting God. He was so convincing that she began to believe that God was holding out. He was the good guy and God…He was selfish and wanted to keep everything for Himself. Trick, trick trick. But thankfully that is not the end of the story—for God had a treat for Satan’s trick. God sent Truth into the world in the form of His Son Jesus. Much later after the garden, when Jesus told us He was the Way, the Truth and the Life” He meant exactly that. The truth is…He is Truth. No tricks, no deception, no kidding…He is the antidote to the devil’s lie. Believe the Truth and you live—believe the lie and die forever. Wow.

fear, forgiveness, friends, gratitude, life, loving others, missions, Scripture, thankful, travel, Trials

Sleepy Lions

Posted on June 23, 2022 by Dewayne Taylor

Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.” 1 Peter 5:8

We found him sleeping in the grass. Sound asleep. A while back I had the privilege of going to Uganda and visiting with Watoto ministries. The trip allowed me to see the incredible work of Watoto up front and personal. They work with orphaned babies and children as well as single mothers. They raise the kids to become Christian leaders and help the mothers provide for their families.

Part of the trip involved us going to Northern Uganda to see the work there. It also gave us the opportunity to take a one-day safari. A safari gives you the opportunity to see animals in the wild. You are on their turf and their terms. We saw a large variety of animals but there was one we all wanted to see. The lion. It is like the holy grail of safaris–to see the “king of the jungle.”

Our guide that day just happened to be one of park rangers, so he had access to areas others did not. So off we went. Before long there was a report of a lion sleeping in a tree. We went cross country and before long, bam, there was a lion…sound asleep. Well, it was pretty incredible–asleep or not. We snapped about a hundred pictures of our sleeping friend and moved on.

We drove for about 30 minutes and another report came of a group of lions about 50 yards off the road. Our guide, the ranger, told the driver to drive though the ditch and he did. Sure enough, there were the lions. There were about five or six of these magnificent beasts–all sound asleep. What is up with lions and sleeping?

Well, it turns out that lions sleep 20 hours a day. They hunt, eat and sleep. That’s about it. Our driver gets to within five or six feet of the sleeping feline. Our guide shouts, the driver honks the horn and nothing. And then he does something totally unexpected. He throws water on the lion.

What? Excuse me? Well, the king of the jungle, who turned out to be a queen, sits up, yawns and looks at us. Hmmm…this lion thing is not what it is cracked up to be. You would be tempted to think that every lion was like this lion. That would be a mistake.

You see, there are some nasty lions out there and they would like to invite you to lunch. Lions are vicious predators and will eat you. I’ve watched enough National Geographic shows to know that not all lions are created equal. I also know this. Not all lions live in Africa. In fact, there is one who lives close–very close. He doesn’t have a mane or a tail, but he does have an appetite. His name isn’t Mufasa or Simba. It is Satan.

The Bible, in 1 Peter 5:8, says this, “Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.” On the safari we stayed alert looking for a lion. In this case we need to stay alert because the lion is looking for us. And guess what? He’s looking for lunch.

Peter said Satan is like a roaring lion. If you’ve studied lions a bit, you know that a lion doesn’t roar when its stalking prey. A lion roars for two different reasons. One, he is declaring his dominance. He is claiming his territory. This is mine. He also roars to invite others to join his pride. The devil does both.

Satan is always roaring saying “this is mine and that is mine” but nothing is truly his. Nothing. It belongs to a much larger, much stronger Lion–the Lion of Judea. Satan is a liar–remember that. He wouldn’t know the truth if it stared him in the face. No pun intended.

He is also looking for others to join his pride. He is looking for people who are discouraged and disheartened with life and with God and inviting them to join him. Joining him is a big mistake. He is a loser, and he knows it. That is why he is roaring so loudly. His time is limited and he wants to take as many with him as he can.

Jesus said in John 10:10 “The thief comes to steal, kill and destroy.” That’s the enemy but Jesus isn’t done speaking. He goes on to say, “I have come to give you life and life more abundantly.” He is saying, “if you trust Me, the Lion of Judah, you can rest in Me. I’m never asleep and I’m never out-gunned. I’ve got this.” And, He does. Bro. Dewayne

Family, friends, Grace, gratitude, life, love, loving others, Scripture, Southern born, thankful

What’s in a Name?

Posted on March 24, 2022March 22, 2022 by Dewayne Taylor

She will give birth to a Son, and you are to give Him the name Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins.” Matthew 1:21

Satan. I’m sure it sounded logical at the time. Everybody needs a dog. Now I know that is a generalization, but the fact is dogs can add a lot to life. Sometimes that “lot” is good and sometimes not so much. The bottom line is that dogs are kinda like people. They are all different, they all have different personalities, and they all have different names.

When I was growing up, I can remember three outdoor dogs that we had. Momma and Daddy had an indoor dog named Penny. She was a, uh, well, overweight chihuahua mix and was pretty much the queen bee of the house. But through the years that I remember we had three other dogs and all three were as different as night and day. The first one had a very unusual name.

Now, first remember these were real outdoor dogs. We are talking their dog food was whatever scraps were left over from dinner and they rarely, very rarely had a bath. So regardless of what adjectives I use to describe them, you would never find them at a dog show. The first one was a beautiful, red, long hair, Irish setter. I’m not sure where we got him, but I can assure you he was free. We definitely did not pay for dogs. Besides the fact that this dog was really pretty, his name set him apart. His name was, wait for it, Satan. Yes, folks, we actually had a dog named Satan. Even as I type this, I am saying, “You’ve got to be kidding me.” But…I am not.

Satan, the dog—not the king of evil—didn’t get his name from his behavior but rather from his red coat. You know how we like to dress Satan (the king of evil not the dog) in red? Well, I guess Momma and Daddy decided it seemed appropriate. I know when I am introduced to someone, sometimes I hear their name and say, “Well, he or she looks like a Judy or a Sam. Well, Satan, the dog, with his red coat fit the bill. What a crazy name for a dog.

The second dog that holds a spot in my dog hall of fame was a beagle named Sally. Now Sally, I think, is a kinda happy name. I have a hard time imagining a stern-faced Sally though I am sure there are plenty out there. Well, Sally, the dog, had a bubbly personality and had the unique ability, wait for it, to smile. Now, as Jerry Clower the comedian, used to say, “if I am lying, I am dying.” You could walk up to ole Sally and give her a greeting and she would turn her upper lip right up and smile at you. Bring her supper and up the lip would go. She was a nice contrast, as you can imagine, to, uh, Satan (not the king of evil but the dog.)

The third and final dog that fills my memory of dogs in my growing up years was a rough and tumble, short legged, who knows what breed or breeds, dog we named, Ruff. Our dog Ruff didn’t stand out with a shiny red coat, nor could he smile. He was just Ruff. If he was a human, he probably would have driven a big Harley hog, wore a leather jacket, and smoked cigarettes. He was rough. He may have had small dog syndrome because truthfully, he was short and stocky. But, regardless, he was a good dog, and he was loyal. He ruled the backyard and protected us from all the bad guys.

Three dogs, three distinct personalities and characteristics and three names that kinda, sorta, fit them. Back in the old days of the Bible, names were a really big deal. You would name your son or daughter based on your hopes and dreams for them. Sometimes it worked out…and sometimes, well, it didn’t. I know when Joseph learned that Mary was going to have Jesus, he had some inside help on the name. I mean an angel shows up and says, “Hey, Mary is going to have a baby and you are to name Him Jesus because He is going to save the world.” Now that is one important name.

And guess what? That is exactly what He did. His destiny was to die on a Roman cross to pay for the sins of the whole world—mine and yours and well, everybody’s. When you hear the name of Jesus—think Savior because that is what He is. His name is special, very special, and is one that should not, ever, be thrown around lightly.

Guess what? God likes to give names to His kids too. In the last book of the Bible, it says that God will give us a new name written on a white stone and no one will understand the name but the one who gets it. Until then, well, He just calls us son or daughter. I like that. And as His son or daughter, we have the assurance that no matter what comes our way, we can count on Him. We can know for sure, “He’s got this.” Bro. Dewayne