Counterfeit Virtue

* Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.”’ 2 Cor, xi. 14.

Tuat is our peril, When vice approaches us wearing the garb of virtue, when the wolf comes in sheep’s clothing, when Satan mimics the angels of light. If temptation always came to us in its native ugliness, and we saw black death in its company, none of us would ever follow in its train. If temptation brought chains to bind us we should steadily resist its approach; but it brings garlands to crown us, and we become the victims of its charms. It comes offering life and cheer and good times, and enlargement! It bribes us with money and popularity, it entices us with visions of prosperity and triumph. And we are dazzled by the brightness, not realising that it is Satan who is decked out as an angel of light.

And, therefore, have we need of fine eyes in order to see through the skins of things to their very hearts. We want the discernment which can see the death’s-head in the proffered crown, and the poison lurking in the gleaming wine. Yes, it is imperative that we know the Tempter at his first approach. We must not offer him opportunity by our delay, or at any time give him the benefit of the doubt. We must know him as soon as he appears and begins to display his dazzling wares. We must be able to discriminate among things that differ, ““Lord, that I may receive my sight!”

Now, it is just this power of moral discernment which is the gift of the Holy Spirit. He is the Quickener of our powers, and He will so discipline and refine our moral sense as to enable us to pierce every deceptive guise, and to expose the evil when it has borrowed the garments of the good. He is the Spirit of enlightenment, and in His gracious fellowship we shall not be led astray.