Using the Devil for God’s Purposes
“Deliver this man into the hands of Satan, so that his sinful nature may be destroyed on the day of the Lord, and his soul may be saved.” – 1 Corinthians. 5:5
Paul encountered a believer who was involved in an incestuous relationship in the Corinthian church. This person was under the influence of Satan and under the influence of immorality. The man was unwilling to change his behavior, so Paul recommended the church take stronger action. He spiritually handed this person over to Satan to destroy his body for the benefit of his soul. The idea is that the person will wallow in the pit of sin until it becomes disgusting to him and he starts crying out for God’s grace. We know this man was a Christian because only a Christian can be subjected to church discipline.
Have you ever known someone who was walking in disobedience and no matter how much you prayed he was oblivious to his sin? God has provided a weapon to combat Satan’s schemes against those who fall prey to him. That is, let Satan have complete access to them so that their lives become so miserable that they cry out to God for mercy. Probably very few of us have ever had to pray this prayer. However, you should not be afraid of this prayer for any believer who is willingly walking in disobedience. This is love – tough love. There is a time and place for tough love. I’ve seen this principle work. God restores His children when their flesh stands against sin. It is not comfortable for those who took this action.
Do you know someone who needs tough love in their life right now? Ask God if it’s time to pray the prayer that Paul prayed. “So that his soul may be saved on the day of the Lord.”
