Has God indeed said, “You shall not eat of every tree of the garden”? G ENESIS 3:1 NKJV

Satan is the master of deceit. Notice how he used almost the same words to entice Eve that the Lord had used to bless her. Sadly, Eve’s response to the enemy was cataclysmic.

Friend, choosing to ignore God when you know He is speaking to you is an act of rebellion (James 4:17). It will lead you to failure every time. And the more you allow the enemy to influence you, the less distinct God’s voice will be. You’ll find yourself confused, thinking illogical thoughts, rationalizing, and tolerating attitudes and actions that you know are wrong.

Don’t be fooled—redeem your focus. Listen to the Lord. Tune in to the Father and obey Him. Because by doing so you will be mentally sharper than those who don’t. Particularly on spiritual and moral issues, you will have a perception, awareness, and attentiveness that others do not possess. This is because “the fear of the L ORD is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding” (Proverbs 9:10). The Lord gives you supernatural discernment and insight that can only come by His hand.

Father, help me stay focused on You and You alone so my way stays pure and right, amen.

In His presence . . . stay focused on Him.

Stanley, Dr. Charles F. (2014-11-11). Every Day in His Presence (p. 291).