VOICE OF TRUTH FOR TODAY
When You’ve Looked the Devil in the Eye…
There are moments in life when obedience to God feels terrifying — when He asks us to do something that goes far beyond our comfort, our history, and even our pain. This is one of those moments.
Years ago, while pastoring, my husband encountered a man carrying a dark and painful past. This man began attending our church, and I wanted nothing to do with him. He represented everything I had once been harmed by. I was fearful, angry, and protective — and honestly, I did not want him anywhere near our congregation.
But God had a different plan.
One Sunday morning during worship, the Holy Spirit filled the room in a powerful way. As I worshiped, I felt the Lord clearly say, “Go tell him I love him.” I argued. I pleaded. I begged God to send someone else. But again, He said, “You are who he needs to hear it from.”
With tears and trembling, I walked toward the man I believed was the enemy. I felt like I was about to look the devil in the eye. But when he looked up at me, I didn’t see the devil — I saw a broken man.
I told him, “God knows everything you’ve done — and He loves you. If you surrender to Him, He will forgive you.” He fell to his knees, sobbing, and cried out to God for mercy. That morning, he surrendered his life to Jesus.
Scripture tells us, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18, NIV). That day, healing came — not just for him, but for me too.
Only God can bring redemption like that. Only God can heal the deepest wounds and break the strongest chains. His mercy truly knows no limits.
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Excerpt from Voice of Truth Magazine
“Coffee Chats” by Tina Kadolph