Too often we’re quick to say, “The devil made me do it,” but if we’re honest… a lot of times, it wasn’t Satan. It was just us—making foolish choices, not seeking God, acting in emotion instead of wisdom. Yes, we have an enemy who prowls like a roaring lion (1 Peter 5:8), but we also have a responsibility for the decisions we make. Some of the storms we face weren’t sent by the devil—they were planted by our own disobedience.

 

It’s time to take responsibility.

 

We can’t grow if we’re always blaming. We can’t heal if we’re always deflecting. God doesn’t bless excuses—He blesses honesty, humility, and repentance. And the moment we take ownership is the moment we invite Him to start the transformation.

 

But there’s another layer: influence.

 

We forget how much people are watching us. Our kids. Our spouse. Our coworkers. Our brothers and sisters in Christ. Even strangers. People are learning how to live—by watching how we live. The question is… what are we teaching them?

 

“But whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to sin, it would be better for him to have a millstone hung around his neck…” – Matthew 18:6

“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16

 

If someone learns from you how to curse, lie, cheat, or explode in anger… you influenced them. And we don’t get to blame Satan for that. But here’s the beauty of it: we can also lead people to kindness, integrity, forgiveness, and faith by the way we live.

 

You don’t have to be perfect—but you do need to be intentional. You are influencing someone right now whether you realize it or not.

 

So today, let’s stop shifting the blame. Let’s own our walk. And let’s be the kind of example that reflects the grace and truth of Jesus Christ.

 

Let your life speak loud—and let it speak life.

 

-Rev Carlos Figueroa