Jesus or the devil?

Jesus or the devil?
We all have a myriad of choices in our complex society, most of which are minor and don't have a major impact on how we live our lives. However, the value, moral and belief choices we make determine who we are, what we do with our limited time here on earth, and on our relationships both with each other and with our "higher power". Most perennial philosophers have stated that this word is what they called "dualistic" or characterized by two competing paradigms or, for the purposes of this essay, choices. Right and wrong, stay or go, jump in or shy away, etc. Yin and yang, earthly and spiritual are some of the realms we live in. Another is leader or follower. Proactive or complacent. But the purpose here is to present with what I believe is the essence of all our dual choices. Do we trust or believe in Jesus or the devil? Sadly, most people trust the devil's lies, as Adam and Eve did in the Garden of Eden in the Bible's Book of Genesis. The devil is attractive. He says "party till you puke", and "who cares who gets hurt" and grab the money and run, it's cool and fun. Punch your girlfriend and lie about it, you're too smart to get caught. Skim a little off the top at work, no big deal, no one will miss it. Take advantage of that young boy or girl, you won't get caught, and heck it's a trip, man. And those drugs do wonders for the mind! Drinking is relaxing and a good way to get rid of inhibitions. Smoke that pack of cigarettes, lung cancer will never get me! Ignore your wife and go fishing, she'll get over it. Forgot your wife's anniversary? Lie about it and tell her you had to work late and the secretary you're sleeping with, that's just a one-time thing, right? Remember what Jesus said, those that laugh now, will mourn later. And too much "reveling", i.e. partying, will get you a first class ticket to the Lake of Fire and Brimstone. Don't make the mistake of trusting the devil. Trust Jesus who said that those who follow him will have eternal life. Love God, through prayer and worship and love your neighbor through charitable acts of volunteering and almsgiving. If you really want to ensure that you will be "saved", and gain entry into the Kingdom of Heaven, which is coming soon, than you should love your enemies and leave avenging hurts to God. Although he may be fun and attractive, the devil is all smoke and mirrors, deception, hatred and love of money, power and violence. Flee from him before it's too late. Too many have already been caught in his traps. Steve Theriault, [e-mail]