26/03/2014 - DO NOT THINK IT STRANGE

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Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you. 1 Peter 4.12

All those who became Christians should expect some trouble, as the Lord will surely allow trials in their lives. It was the Spirit of the Lord who led Jesus to the wilderness to be tempted by the devil (Matthew 4.1-11), and, without any doubt, God did not mean that as a punishment to his own son. So you should not think it strange if, all of sudden, you stumble upon an opportunity to act in disagreement with the Word of God.

Peter, the apostle, spoke about the fiery trial that comes upon our lives, so we must be watchful, and when these opportunities present themselves to us, we must resist and not give them any attention. As Jesus was tempted by Satan, we will also be, that is, if we do the same works that he did. If you are never tempted, examine yourself to find out if you are truly a believer.

Of course, no one who is saved likes to have wrong, filthy or evil thoughts; but the tempter is a master in presenting these opportunities to the children of God. If you have ever despaired because you thought about evil things, or if you have ever felt the urge to practice them, instead of seeing yourself as a lost person, be aware that this comes from the devil, who wants to separate us from God. If that is your case, ask the Lord for forgiveness right now.

Be watchful, so that when temptation comes do not consider it strange. Take the Word of God as an exhortation and, when evil desires arise—which may also present themselves as something well-meaning—as well as opportunities for having pleasure, making money, bear in mind that these things are part of the devil’s scheme. With faith and steadfastness in the Name of Jesus, rebuke the temptation and do not give in to it.

The Bible teaches us a simple manner to resist temptation: to live in Spirit. Those who stick to God’s commandments will see that it is not so hard to turn down the enemy’s offers. On the other hand, those who are not attentive to that which God says to them will not be strong enough to say “no” to the tempter. Heeding what the Lord says is the secret to being always connected to him (Proverbs 16.20).

If we could not pass all tests, the Lord wouldn’t have allowed it to be this way. The truth is, upon the recreation of our spirit, God made us in such way that we are able to face any battle and come out victorious (Psalms 34.19). Those who do not watch and then fall cannot use the excuse that the flesh was stronger than his faith, because the Almighty God helps us in all things; if we ask for his help, he will provide a way out.

In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares