When the Enemy – Satan comes to attack followers of Christ, he does so in subtle ways and not-so-subtle ways. The intention behind it all is to lure and tempt God’s child away from living in God’s Truth.
The devil’s schemes are subtle at first because you won’t realize what’s really happening. Before you know it, you’ve been led astray and haven’t utilized the necessary resources (being prayer, reading the Word, and keeping your eyes fixed on Jesus) to prepare you for the battle that’s coming. Every once in awhile, we face trials and tribulations. Some more frequently than others. Some to more extremes than others. Whatever the case, God has given us the resources to overcome those trials.
What are those resources?
Jesus Christ’s sacrifice on the cross for the forgiveness of sins. He defeated death and offers eternal life to those who would believe in Him. Acts 4:12 “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.”
Jesus’ death brought another important resource- the Holy Spirit. Those who repent and confess that Jesus is Lord and Savior, and are baptized, will receive the Holy Spirit – Who is our Advocate (John 14:26). The Spirit convicts us of sin and leads us to repentance, so that we may be reconciled back to the Father.
The Holy Bible – God’s Word is a valuable resource because it reveals to humankind the character of God. It holds the answers to all questions. It reveals to us God’s plan of redemption, highlighting Jesus every step of the way. From the very beginning of Creation, in the Old Testament, in Genesis 3:15, we see a promise that will later be fulfilled. “And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers, he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.” The Prophet Isaiah confirmed the promise in Isaiah 7:14. “Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel.” In the New Testament, we see the birth of Jesus and details of His death and Resurrection. We also see in Revelations details of His second coming.
So, if you’re under attack from the Enemy, suffering consequences of sin, undergoing trials, or are even in a season of joy and blessings, remember – Jesus overcame. He is the Victor and has won the battle! He provides everything we need to overcome and while we’re waiting for His glorious return, let us fix our eyes on Him always. He promised a (future) life where there will be no sorrow, no pain, no tears and we will finally be in His presence! Forever!
Don’t let the Enemy win. Speak God’s Truth against Satan’s lies. He will definitely try to tempt you to speak false accusations against God, to blame Him for your suffering. But God is on your side. He sent Jesus out of great love so that we could be reconciled.
Suffering is either a result of our own sin, Satan’s attacks, or God refining our character in the fire. Remember that. There’s only One who can help us succeed through the fiery trials. And once we passed the test, stayed faithful and obedient to His Word, we will receive the crown of life. James 1:12 confirms:
“[ Loving God Under Trials ] Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.”
Life's Journey 