During supper, when the devil had already put it into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, to betray him, Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and was going back to God, rose from supper. — John 13:2-4

Many have referred to this incident as "the whisper of the devil," and this insidious whisper holds sway over every individual. It is a whisper that is exclusive to us, luring us with our self-centered desires. It entices us to indulge in one more strong drink, to cast longing and lustful gazes, to seek justice through hateful speech, and to betray others for personal gain.

We may read these words and rightfully feel anger towards Judas, but the issue lies in the fact that we have all been Judas. We have all heard and yielded to the whisper of the devil, and in doing so, we have sat across from Jesus at the table, gazing into his eyes, and betrayed him. We are implicated. Every single one of us, myself included, has been complicit in betraying the most loving, merciful, forgiving, and blameless man to have ever graced this earth — Jesus, our Savior and Lord.

Today, pay attention to the whisper of the devil. You will recognize it when you hear it. It is easily discernible. When you hear it, it will sound strikingly similar to your own voice, granting permission to your distinct self-centered desires. So when you encounter it today, respond with a counter-message. Look up at the Savior who knows you have heard the whisper and firmly declare "no" to the whisper of the devil and "yes" to Jesus.

ASK THIS:

1. How can we become more vigilant in recognizing the whisper of the devil in our lives and differentiating it from the voice of God?
2. In what specific areas of our lives have we been most susceptible to the temptations and selfish desires that align with the whisper of the devil? How can we actively resist and overcome these temptations?

DO THIS: Say "no" to the whisper of the devil.

PRAY THIS: God, give me the strength to discern the whispers of the devil from Your divine guidance, and empower me to resist selfish desires, choosing to follow Your will instead. Amen.

PLAY THIS: Fear Is A Liar.