For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places (Ephesians 6:12). Whenever you step forward for God, Satan attacks. He uses whomever is in their own minds are easily manipulated by the lies whispered to them. Paul knew this all too well. Indeed, there was a time that he was used by Satan to persecute the early church. But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ (Ephesians 2:4-5).
Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son, In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins Colossians 1:13-14.
For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell. And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled in the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight. If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled. And be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven (Colossians 1: 19,21,22,23)
Paul understood that whenever he stepped forward to preach the truth of the gospel, attacks came. Satan attacks through people and circumstances. Even some people whom Satan uses think themselves well meaning. They may even be part of the body who are carnal and weak in their knowledge of the truth.
When You Step Forward for God and Satan Attacks
Remain always aware of this truth as you step forward into service for God. Understand that as you stand for the truth of the gospel, you will be attacked. There will be those who attempt to thwart your message. Wherever Satan can create discord, enmity and trials within the church, he will. Seeds of doubt, frustration, and lies. If he can prevent the members of the church from reaching maturity, he destroys their testimony. Whenever he can whisper his lies to even a Christian and get them to believe him, he creates a stronghold in their mind from which to lever his attacks.
This was the case when Herod killed the Apostle James. It was the case when the new Jewish Christians as well as the established Jewish leadership desired to exclude the Gentiles. Thus, resulting in Paul’s imprisonment. When Paul and Barnabas went to preach the gospel to Sergius Paulus, a sorcerer attempted to get in his way. Yet, in every case, God prevails and ultimately His will is done.
But what are we to do when we step forward and Satan attacks? We are to more diligently study God’s word and we are to pray for His wisdom and His strength.
For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Hebrews 4:12
Concluding thoughts
And so dear one, if God has called you to step forward, prepare yourself. When Satan attacks, take heart, knowing that God has the victory. Stay steadfast in prayer and in the studying of God’s Word.
DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD?
If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you to go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because, He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.
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©Effie Darlene Barba, 2019
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
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