It is defined as “developing so gradually as to be well established before becoming apparent” (Merriam-Webster.com). It comes from a Latin word for “ambush,” which is fitting, as this word often carries the meanings “deceitful,” “stealthy,” or “harmful in an imperceptible fashion.” It can be applied to both people and things.

The work of evil in your life is rarely a full-frontal attack. We are not challenged to fight the devil in hand-to-hand combat as he tempts us like he did Jesus. Instead, his work is insidious. Evil slithers into our lives quietly and without notice. It grows without recognition in our hearts, minds, and souls until it takes control of our actions.

There is no need to make you a murderer if the devil can get hatred to grow in your heart. He does not need to have you steal a million dollars if he can get you to fudge a few numbers on your taxes. Evil wins in your life when small lies become a regular part of your conversations.

The path away from God comes with seemingly meaningless, misdirected steps until evil gets us alone and can ambush us. Sin, in your life and mine, is insidious.