02/07/2018 - WORKS OF GOD

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You brought us into the net; You laid affliction on our backs. Psalm 66:11

As it happened with Jesus after being baptized in the Jordan, God takes us to the dessert to test our faith, in order that we may show what we came to do for His Kingdom (Luke 4:1) The Savior was tried and tested in preparation for what He would face every day during His mission.  In the same way, we have to be prepared to carry out divine will.  Our mission may be extended or abbreviated, depending how we come out on the tests.

The psalmist states that God let the Israelites fall into traps.  Similar happens to us, but to be tempted does not make sinners of us.  After being afflicted by the devil, we have no word that the Master asked to be forgiven for all that happened to Him, and the Bible says that the Lord was tested and tried in everything (Hebrews 4:15).  If on all sides we have irresistible offers, rejoice and keep the faith, for as you come through each test, you are showing your love for the Most High.

The hunter’s snare cannot bind those who are delivered to freedom by Jesus (Psalm 124:7).  In some cases, the person comes very close to the abyss, but if she is truly God’s she will remain in His presence.  Tell the Father about your circumstances and seek His help; after all, those who seek His help will receive it (Matthew 21:22). The devil has no ability to create a trap to draw us away from the hands of the Lord!

The trial that God allow us to experience is to refine us, preparing us for future missions.   If the trial makes you desperate, rebuke and reject it, sending it away.  This way Satan will not destroy you. Check to see what is in your heart and how you see the enemy’s offers.  Remember: during trials God purifies us as is done with silver (Zechariah 13:9)

When the Most High is testing us, often, the burdens placed on us are heavy.  They oppress us as if there is no way to escape them, and it is difficult to bear them.  But do not let the devil put his words into your mouth.  If the desire to faint is strong, do not give up, but confess that there is a way because God is greater than everything.

In various moments, the Israelites said that it seemed like the men rode horses on their backs.  However, after the trial, they realized that God had guarded them.  Victory brought them more than they could expect.  No matter what way the Lord tries and tests you; since He is Love, He will never let evil defeat you. With each temptation there is always an escape He provides (1 Corinthians 10:13). The future of the one instructed in the Word will always be much better than his preparation.

Even passing through the fire, you will not be burned, as God so promised.  So it happened with the three Hebrew youths in the furnace of Nebuchadnezzar, heated up seven times more than usual (Deuteronomy 3:26). If you are passing through the waters they will not submerge you (Isaiah 43:2), and in the end you will enjoy abundance from Above.  So rejoice and praise the holy name of the Lord.  He will gift you with victory and you will glorify Him. 

In Christ, with Love, 

R. R. Soares