The opposition... part 3...

"For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."

Ephesians 6:12

A dear friend and mentor just reminded me that a fairly well-known teacher and pastor says (paraphrasing) that if you are not in the middle of a trial, you probably aren't where you need to be.  He makes this statement to encourage those who are in times of distress, looking for the "silver lining" around the seemingly ever-growing dark cloud that looms in life.  I am grateful for this reminder.

And for the rest of the people who, unlike myself, are not in a trial right now, I would ask openly where they stand?  Are you openly opposed to the enemy with no fear of anything earthly that he can bring to you?  Or are you capitulating to the whims of the world, and trying to play both ends against the middle? 

And for those of us in trials, I would point out that we may not ever know another person's hardships.  They can range from all kinds of possiblities, going through money and family and friends and church.  We may not see it, but that doesn't mean it does not exist.  And as the Bible teaches us not to covet, we must remain careful not to assume another person has a "better life" than we have.  Technically, they have the same life... exactly the same life.  Heart beating, blood pumping, brain working (regardless of IQ or capacity), lungs breathing: it is the same for all living people.  Their life is no better then yours or mine.  It is simply different.

Take time today to pray about how you are withstanding the forces of evil in the spiritual realms.  Remember that you are alive, first and foremost, and that is all you can ask for.  Further, you are saved for eternity, and that is more than you can ever understand.  So what else is needed, honestly?  Nothing.  I submit that nothing else is needed at all.  And the opposing forces will one day cower before the Throne and be washed away!  Encourage others and yourself in this, and honor the Lord in doing so!

God bless you all!!!