Be Ready

It should never come as a surprise for the enemy to rise up against us. Knowledge of the fact it could happen is good but spiritual preparedness is crucial. The New Testament writer said: "Keep a cool head. Stay alert. The Devil is poised to pounce, and would like nothing better than to catch you napping. Keep your guard up. You're not the only ones plunged into these hard times. It's the same with Christians all over the world. So keep a firm grip on the faith. The suffering won't last forever. It won't be long before this generous God who has great plans for us in Christ—eternal and glorious plans they are!—will have you put together and on your feet for good. He gets the last word; yes, he does. 1 Peter 5:8-11 (MSG)

Peter reminds us and it is comforting to know we are not alone. Believers like you all over the world are facing the same enemy. It never fails. When a believer begins to seek God’s rule for their life, the enemy is threatened. He does not want us to reform much less allow the living Savior to guide our feelings, decisions, and actions. He does not want us to win, even though the bible tells us we are winners in Christ. What happens, too often, is when a believer faces a trial, challenge or temptation they grow doubtful, tired, and discouraged. Sometimes rebellion and bitterness begin to cloud what we know is right. Through the years, I have seen God begin a good work in someone and just as they begin walking in the right direction, someone or something comes along and  becomes a roadblock in their situation. Too often they yield to this distraction and begin going a different direction than God intended. We must trust the one who has great plans for us. He reminds us they are not just good plans but great plans. I close with the words of Paul who said: Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. Phil 1:6 (NIV)