Spiritual Conflict

    Anyone who knows me personally is aware of the fact that I am always the last person to find out about anything. I have often said "If the world were to blow up today, I wouldn't be aware of it till tomorrow." Silliness aside it has come to my attention that something happening to Christians all over the world. I we are being made ready for an event, or events unknown.

    In recent months and weeks many in my faith family have been under what seems to be spiritual attacks. Regularly healthy people are becoming ill, stresses have been amplified, temptation abounds and discouragement is coming in, what feels like, tidal waves. Why is this happening?

    I cannot speak as to what is occurring, or why, but from my limited scope it would appear we are being both taught and fought. God is allowing us to be tested and Satan, in his fear of what our witnesses can do against him, is trying to bring us down. Satan doesn't want Gods children to be effective, for a clear witness is as mighty a weapon in the spiritual battle as a bomb is in a physical one. But do not fear, God is using these trials to strengthen us; bringing us to our breaking points to show us that we can go further than we ever thought possible with Him in control.

•  No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it. 1 Corinthians 10:13

•  The LORD your God is testing you to find out whether you love him with all your heart and with all your soul. Deuteronomy 13:3

• So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10

   What is coming? I have no idea. But I say this, my brothers and sisters, keep the faith. Confide your fears and weaknesses to members of the body of Christ, for together we are stronger in the Lord. We each have our roles to play and jobs to do and these we cannot do alone. God wants us to rally as one, to strengthen our spirits and our spiritual defenses.

• As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another. Proverbs 27

• Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. 1 Corinthians 12:27

   A word of caution: be mindful to not become heady in pride in your ability to resist doubt or temptation, or in your abilities to help other believers. We cannot do anything apart from Jesus.

• I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. John 15:5

 And most importantly remember He is with us at all times, so no matter what happens we can overcome it. He will give us what we need, when we need it, to do what needs to be done.

• I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13

So where is this all heading? I honestly do not know. But, I have faith that our troubles are for a purpose and that our trials can lead us into strength. What does the future hold? God knows and he is preparing us for it. 

• … Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your exceedingly great reward. Genesis 15:1