Not Every Opportunity is from God — It May Be a Trap Genesis 13:10–11 “And Lot lifted up his eyes, and beheld all the plain of Jordan, that it was well watered everywhere, before the LORD destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah, even as the garden of the LORD, like the land of Egypt, as thou comest unto Zoar. Then Lot chose him all the plain of Jordan; and Lot journeyed east: and they separated themselves the one from the other.” Many people believe that every open door is a divine door. But as believers, we must discern the difference between God’s direction and the devil’s distraction. Not every opportunity comes from heaven—some come from hell, designed to pull you away from God’s purpose and into destruction. Lot saw an opportunity in Sodom, but it was a trap that ended in loss and shame. The devil also opens doors, but his doors lead to bondage. That’s why discernment is critical in your Christian journey. 1. The Devil Also Opens Doors Matthew 4:8–9 “Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me.” The devil offered Jesus an opportunity to gain the world without the cross—a shortcut that bypassed God’s will. Every “easy way out” isn’t divine favor. Some are satanic setups designed to compromise your values and ruin your destiny. 2. Every Open Door Must Be Tested 1 John 4:1 “Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God…” Before you take a job, start a partnership, or enter a relationship, ask God: * Is this Your will? * Does it align with Your Word? * Will it glorify You or destroy my testimony? Opportunities that lead you away from prayer, church, or holiness are traps in disguise. 3. Some Opportunities Are Bait for Your Weakness Genesis 39:7–9 “And it came to pass after these things, that his master’s wife cast her eyes upon Joseph; and she said, Lie with me. But he refused…” Potiphar’s wife presented what seemed like a “private opportunity,” but Joseph discerned the danger. He chose purity over pleasure, and that decision led him to promotion. The devil often uses temptation wrapped in opportunity. 4. When God Opens a Door, It Brings Peace and Purpose Philippians 4:7 “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” God’s doors come with peace, even in uncertainty. The devil’s doors come with pressure, fear, and compromise. If it forces you to lie, cheat, or sin—it is not from God. 5. Wait for God’s Timing Isaiah 40:31 “But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength…” Impatience has pushed many into satanic traps. Abraham waited on God and became the father of nations. Saul rushed ahead of God and lost the throne. Learn to wait—it’s better to move slowly in God’s will than to run quickly into destruction. A young man was offered a job abroad that promised wealth and fame. It looked like the breakthrough he had prayed for, but something didn’t feel right. . After praying, he sensed the Holy Spirit warning him to decline. Months later, the company was exposed for human trafficking. What seemed like a blessing was actually a trap. His obedience saved his life. Not every opportunity is from God. Some open doors lead to open graves. Pray before you proceed. Discern before you decide. If the opportunity contradicts God’s Word, it’s not a blessing—it’s bait. Pray This Prayer Lord, give me the spirit of discernment to recognize Your voice above every deception. Close every door the enemy opens and lead me only through the path of righteousness. Amen Pastor Abiodun Kadri #Discernment #DivineDirection #ChristianWisdom #AvoidTheTrap #SpiritualGrowth #GodsWill #FaithJourney #ChristianTeaching #NotEveryDoorIsFromGod #Sermon