1 Peter 4:12 John 16:33 1 Peter 5:8 Gen 50:20 1/12/16

1 Peter 4:12 "Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you."

We have a tendency to think things should come easily for us.  With today's "everybody gets a trophy" mentality...it's easy to let an entitled, self centered  philosophy seep into your spiritual life.

The problem is it sets you up for disappointment.  Christ never said it would be easy.  In fact He said the opposite.  "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)   We can expect victory, but we should not expect it without a fight.

We as Christians need to understand that satan is real, and  he "... prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour." (1 Peter 5:8) and his plan is to  "... steal and kill and destroy."(John 10:10).   He is described as your adversary, and the more you do for Christ, the more you can expect resistance.

You'll find it hard if you resolve to spend a few minutes reading the Word and praying every morning.  There will be obstacles if you decide to attend a christian concert, bible study,  or event. This is evidence of the battle, and should encourage your perseverance.

The enemy is real and active.  But if you put on the full armor of God, and walk in the Spirit...then after the battle, you will be more than victorious and blessed by the outcome.

"...you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result" (Gen 50:20)

This week take the attacks as confirmation you are moving in the right direction, and let the struggle solidify your commitment to the fight.  Don't fear it, don't be surprised by it, and because of who you serve, never stop short of victory.

“A river cuts through rock, not because of its power, but because of its persistence.”
Jim Watkins