READ: EPHESIANS 6:10-17

Have you ever been deceived? Confused, lied to, twisted around, and pulled into a pit of despair? We all have. Deception is one of the enemy’s favorite tactics.

The devil is “the father of lies” (John 8:44). He tells us we aren’t good enough—that God couldn’t possibly love us. He uses the world’s voices to shout lies like: “Make straight As at school, join every club that will have you, and dress like a model—then you’ll be worth something.”

We start to believe these lies and pursue things like popularity, good grades, trophies, or experiences above all else. We forget that true value comes from Jesus, our Creator and the one who has already done everything needed for us to be in relationship with Him (Ephesians 2:8-9).

The good news? God’s truth protects us from the devil’s lies. In Ephesians 6, the apostle Paul uses armor to describe the way truth protects us: it reminds us of all we have in Jesus. As Christians, we are called to wear “truth like a belt” (verse 14). Just like no Roman soldier would go to battle half-dressed, we can’t fight the devil’s lies if we aren’t clothed in God’s truth. The truth of the good news of Jesus is our protection, our shield, and our sword in the midst of any struggle. Once we know Jesus, no lie can separate us from God’s immense love for us (Romans 8:38-39).

We can talk with Jesus about any lies we’re dealing with. We can ask Him to replace the lies with His truth, trusting His Holy Spirit to show us what lies we’re believing and lead us to the truth of God’s Word. Jesus is the one who can drown out the enemy’s lies. • Sharon Rene

• Are you aware of any lies you’ve been believing about yourself? Sometimes, even when we recognize lies, it can be hard to stop believing them. Consider taking a moment to write them down and give them to God. This may not makethelies go away, but it’salwaysagood first step.

• Can you think of any truths from the Bible that refute these lies? Consider writing these down and thanking God for them

• If you can’t find a Bible passage to refute a lie you’re believing, who is a trusted Christian in your life— such as a camp counselor or pastor—who can help you find some verses?

[Jesus said,] “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:32 (CSB)