July 23
Satan's Ally
Why is it that you have conceived this deed in your heart? You have not lied to men, but to God.
Acts 5:4, NASB
Some may wonder why God chose to strike down Ananias and his wife in church. Perhaps it was to show the church and the world how serious they should be in serving Him. Many had heard of the love of God, but this reminded them of His judgment and wrath toward those with a divided loyalty.

I have learned an important truth. When genuine revival breaks out, you can be certain that Satan will be close by. It’s easy to understand why. The early Church had just been ignited by the fire of revival. Thousands had been saved on the Day of Pentecost. Teaching and discipleship was spreading. Thousands more were being added as God’s power was witnessed. These new believers were not only denying themselves, but they were loving, sharing and praying for one another.

Where God is moving, Satan will be also. Peter asked the question, “Why hath Satan filled your heart to lie against the Holy Ghost?” (Acts 5:3). The answer is clear. Ananias and Sapphira were guilty of hypocrisy, deceit and greed—sins of which Satan is an expert. It wasn’t the money for the land that had been divided, it was the couple’s hearts. A divided heart is Satan’s ally.

Ananias and Sapphira fell under the power of God. They were literally slain by God. This should be a warning to all of us to stay pure and holy in the midst of Holy Ghost revival.

Judges 6; Acts 10
Jeremiah 19; Mark 5

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Frannie