God’s People Must Guard Against Subtle Influences

God’s people must strictly guard against every subtle influence that seeks entrance by flattering suggestions from enemies of truth. They are pilgrims and strangers in this world. It is not the open and declared enemies of the cause of God whom we should fear the most. Those who come with smooth words and appealing speeches, apparently seeking friendly alliance with God’s children, have greater power to deceive. Every Christian should be on the alert, not to be taken by surprise by some concealed and masterly snare. The Lord requires a vigilance that never relaxes.RR 200.1

But none are left to struggle alone. Angels protect those who walk humbly before God. As His children draw near to Him for protection from evil, in love He lifts up for them a banner against the enemy. Touch them not, He says, for they are Mine.RR 200.2

Never tiring in their opposition, the Samaritans “tried to discourage the people of Judah. They troubled them in building, and hired counselors against them to frustrate their purpose all the days of Cyrus king of Persia, even until the reign of Darius king of Persia.” Ezra 4:4, 5. But for many years the powers of evil were restrained, and the people in Judea had liberty to continue their work.RR 200.3