Look at these three translations of Ephesians 4:27:

“Do not give the devil a foothold.” (New International)
“Nor give place to the devil.” (New King James)
“Do not give the devil an opportunity.” (New American Standard)

They all agree on two key words: “give” and “the devil.”

It is the third key word on which there seems to be considerable variance.

Checking a Greek lexicon provides some clues.

The Greek word that has been translated in these three different ways is: “Topos.”

You may recognize “topos” as the root of such English words as “topography” and “topology.”

The literal meaning of “topos” is geographical space or place.

In other words, Paul is warning against giving the devil room to enter a space that is rightfully ours.

Don’t give him any ground.

Hence the translation “nor give place” to the devil.

You can see how “foothold” is also related to physical space.

Don’t give the devil an opening to get his foot in the door, so to speak.

The metaphorical meaning of “topos” is opportunity.

Don’t give the devil any opportunity to get a foothold in your life.

Please notice also that he cannot invade your personal space without your consent.

This is clear from Paul’s choice of the word “didomi” which is translated “give.”

This word literally means “to give of one’s own accord.”

We are not forced or coerced into it.

We give it to him voluntarily.

How do we make such a voluntary contribution?

Paul’s list in verses 25-31 includes a number of possibilities:
•    Lying
•    Staying Angry
•    Stealing
•    Laziness
•    Unwholesome talk
•    Bitterness
•    Rage
•    Brawling
•    Slander and
•    Malice.

Every time we commit these and similar offences, we give the devil grounds to enter our sacred space.

Needless to say he takes full advantage of every opportunity that we offer him.

What begins as a foothold can soon end up as a stronghold.

Footholds can be kicked out easily. Strongholds need to be demolished with difficulty.

Clearly, it is preferable to close off every possible access point, such as those on Paul’s list.

As we continue our journey through this season of Lent and the 40 Day Fast, perhaps now is the time to examine ways in which we may be allowing the devil access into our lives.

Would you ask the Holy Spirit to show you how you may have unwittingly provided grounds for him to gain a foothold?

Repent. And then “get rid of” whatever he shows you.

Then replace it with some new behaviour.

“And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” (v. 32)

You have just removed all grounds for him to gain any ground.

Hallelujah!