One of the enemy’s best weapons is confusion. When we are confused, we are unable to see things clearly. It disrupts our decision-making process, often resulting in choices that are irrational and inconsistent with our core beliefs. Many times, confusion is produced by the people around us. We are continuously barraged with differing world views and alternative belief systems. Want proof? Take a closer look at today’s reading. Did you notice in verse 29, “the whole city was in confusion?”
To understand the city’s confusion, we need to look back to verse 23. Up until that point, Paul was actively spreading the word of God. Acts 19:20 says that the Lord’s message Paul presented was “spread widely and had a powerful effect.” Clearly, lives were being changed. Not everyone, however, was happy about this. In fact, a man named Demetrius was suddenly worried about the impact that these new beliefs would have on his business. To combat this, he developed a strategy. He knew, that it would be easy. All he had to do was confuse people.
Demetrius starts with the economic conversation, encouraging them to consider the consequences of slowing sales. It was enough to spark some fear, but not enough to start a rebellion. To intensify their reaction, he adds confusion by suggesting that the magnificent goddess, Artemis will be robbed of her “great prestige.” This was all it took. The people were sufficiently overwhelmed by these significant changes. The fear it stimulated caused their anger to boil (v18). It wasn’t long before full on rebellion occurred and “everything was in confusion” (v32).
The sad reality is that we are subject to the same confusion. J.I. Packer elaborates on this. He says, “we are so consumed with great thoughts of man that we only have room for small thoughts of God. Second, we are confused by modern skepticism.” Is it any wonder that it’s one of Satan’s preferred weapons? Thankfully, the Spirit who lives in us, is greater than the spirit who lives in this world (1 John 4:4). When we arm ourselves with His truth, we win. I have found a very practical way to avoid confusion. It comes from remembering who God is and who I am. The following affirmations, despite their simplicity, are powerful statements that bring clarity, hope, courage and refreshment.
I believe that God is who he says he is
I believe that God can do what God says he can do
I believe that I am who God says I am
I believe that I can do what God says I can do
God’s Word is alive and active in me
I believe God