Today, I heard: “The enemy is the enemy within.”
And I answered, “Inside of us or around us”
Then I heard:” Both because one leads to the other “
I answered, “Lord, but they don’t know.”
Then I heard: “They do. They have chosen not to see.”
What if some of your struggles are connected to speaking too freely?
What if someone eating at your table is betraying your trust?
What if you have allowed the sinful practices around you to influence your decisions?
What if you are tolerating what God has instructed you to confront?
What If You Have been tolerating Jezebel?
What if your outside enemies have access to you because of the enemy within?
As I reflected on this, the image of an ant came to mind. Proverbs tells us to consider the ant, a creature known for diligence and working together. But strife creates division which in turn gives access to the enemy for destruction.
📖 Proverbs 6:6–8
Yet even a colony known for its unity can be weakened from within. An opening on the inside can give an outside threat access. A confidence shared carelessly, dishonesty left unaddressed, or harmful behavior continually excused can affect more than one person.
Guard your words. “Whoever goes about slandering reveals secrets, but he who is trustworthy in spirit keeps a thing covered.”
📖 Proverbs 11:13
The vulnerable point needs attention. That does not mean the person who is struggling is an enemy. Those who are weak need support; destructive conduct needs to be addressed.
In His message to the church in Thyatira, Jesus rebuked them for tolerating “that woman Jezebel,” whose teaching led His servants into sexual immorality and idolatry.
📖 Revelation 2:20
What have you recognized but continued to excuse?
Joseph’s betrayal came from within his own family. His brothers saw his father’s favor and heard his dreams. Jealousy became the tool that moved them against him.
📖 Genesis 37:4–11, 18–28
Jesus’ betrayer ate at the same table with Him. Judas walked among the disciples, yet chose to betray Him. Jesus knew, and still He said, “He that eateth bread with me hath lifted up his heel against me.”
📖 John 13:18, 21–30; Psalm 41:9
Proximity does not always mean loyalty. But hardship alone is not evidence of betrayal.
We need discernment without becoming suspicious of everyone. Watch the fruit. Pray for wisdom. Allow actions over time to reveal what words alone cannot.
When confrontation is needed, do it God’s way: go to the person privately first, with the goal of restoration, not exposure.
📖 Matthew 18:15
And while we examine what is around us, we must also examine what is within us. Jealousy, bitterness, and selfish ambition must never find a home in our own hearts.
Lord, give us wisdom to recognize wrongdoing, courage to establish boundaries, and humility to examine ourselves. Help us strengthen what is vulnerable and guard our hearts without closing them to love.
Jen Ford
Continue Reading
Partner With the Ministry
If this message blessed you, consider sowing into Jen Ford Ministries and helping us continue reaching, teaching, and equipping others. Give Today
Leave a Reply