The word “if” can be used in a constructive way and in a destructive way. In 2 Peter 1, our God said, regarding the essential Christian qualities, “If these things are yours…If you do these things…” (1:8-10). As a conditional statement, our God motivates us in constructive ways.
In the temptations of Jesus, our adversary used the word “if.” Twice the devil tempted our Savior, “If You are the Son of God…If You are the Son of God” (Matt. 4:3, 6). What do you mean “if”? He IS the Son of God! In order to create possible doubt and uncertainty, the tempter tests us in destructive ways. “If you really believe in God, then…” “If you really believe your Bible is from God, then…” “If you aren’t really sure about this whole Christianity thing, then…”
God uses the word “if” constructively, to motivate us. The devil uses the word “if” destructively, to harass us. Let us stand guard against the doubts, worries, fears and hesitations that the devil throws before us to trip us up. May we, like Jesus, hold to the power of God’s Word!