Avoiding Distractions

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  Memo to God's Elect To: God's Elect From: Pst. JK. Woodall, Ph.D. Subject: Staying Focused on Jesus and Avoiding Distractions Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, As we journey through our faith walk, it is crucial to stay vigilant against distractions that can draw our focus away from Jesus Christ. I would like to offer you some insights and reminders to help you stay centered on our Lord. The Dangers of Shiny Objects - External Allure : Just as the Nachash (often translated as "serpent" or "snake," but also meaning "shiny one") in the Garden of Eden distracted Eve with its cunning and appealing appearance, we too can encounter shiny objects that divert our attention from God's will. *"But I am afraid that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent’s cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ" (2 Corinthians 11:3).* - Temple's Splendor : The gleaming splendor of the Second Temple wa
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Be On the Look Out (BOLO) for the Shiny One

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Subject: A Warning from Genesis 3

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Grace and peace be with you. I am writing to you today with an important message about a powerful lesson from the Book of Genesis. In Genesis 3, we encounter the serpent (nachash) and its pivotal role in the temptation of Adam and Eve. As we study this passage, I want to warn you all to be vigilant and discerning, as the enemy still uses similar tactics today.

In the original Hebrew text of Genesis 3, the word "nachash" is used to describe the serpent. This term can mean "serpent" or "snake," but it also carries connotations of cunning and craftiness. The serpent in the Garden of Eden is described as the most subtle of all creatures, and it uses persuasive speech and deception to lead Eve astray.

Genesis 3:1-7 recounts how the serpent approached Eve and questioned God's command regarding the forbidden fruit. The serpent cleverly twisted God's words, sowing doubt and enticing Eve with the promise of wisdom and enlightenment. This moment of deception led to the fall of humanity.


Let us heed this warning and be on the lookout for the shiny one in our own lives:


1. Stay Grounded in God's Word: The serpent used subtlety and persuasion to distort God's command. Let us remain rooted in Scripture, like Jesus in the wilderness, who defeated the tempter with the truth of God's Word (Matthew 4:1-11).

2. Watch for Deception: The enemy often appears in deceptive forms, promising fulfillment and enlightenment. Stay vigilant against any teachings, ideologies, or temptations that go against the will of God (2 Corinthians 11:14).

3. Guard Your Hearts: Be mindful of your thoughts and desires, for the enemy seeks to exploit vulnerabilities. Remember Paul's instruction in Philippians 4:8 to think on whatever is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, and commendable.

4. Rely on the Holy Spirit: Lean on the Holy Spirit for guidance and discernment. Pray for wisdom to recognize and resist the schemes of the enemy (James 4:7).

As we navigate the trials and temptations of this world, let us remain steadfast in our faith and commitment to the Lord. Let us support one another in prayer and encourage each other to stay vigilant against the shiny one's deceptive tactics.


In Christ's love,


J.K. Woodall, Ph.D.

Senior Pastor

Revival Center Hesperia

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