Pressed, Perplexed, Persecuted

Pressed, Perplexed, Persecuted

Did these things only happen to the first disciples of Jesus—or was God speaking through Paul to prepare us for the very same things?  

If we are ONLY looking for the blessings and fulfillment that God can bring to our lives (and He does do that!), we’ll be blindsided when hard things come. He told us there would be perilous times ahead (II Timothy 3), wars, pestilences, famine, and martyrdom (Matthew 24).  Jesus himself told us that he came as a bond slave and was obedient to his Father unto death—and we were told to have the same mindset.  (Philippians 2:5-8)  He told us the days were evil (Ephesians 5:16) and that the world would hate us (John 15:19). 

Satan is hitting all of us hard, isn’t he?   Especially leaders!  It’s like they have a target on their backs.  Satan doesn’t play fair—he’s out to destroy.  

What can we do? 

1.  Be in the Word—it’s imperative!

2.  Give God thanks and praise. 

3.  Build spiritual muscles through the opposition that comes.  

4.  Find JOY—it’s our strength!

5.  Lock arms with like-minded believers.  

6.  PRAY!!

7.  Be alert to your adversary. Know how he works.  Recognize him, his voice, and how he moves.  

8. Don’t give in to despair. Press in to God.  

9. Ask for help!

10. Don’t quit.  That’s exactly what the enemy wants you to do.  

We are living through some hard days, aren’t we?  But...God!!   God wants to give us victory.  He wants us to finish well—all while walking in truth!  He wants His light to shine through us. He is the God of Light who wants to BREAK THROUGH!  Our churches need to see this kind of victory like never before.  Let’s lock arms and set our hearts and minds with the determination to overcome—all while leaning on and depending on the Spirit of God!  

Hang in there, sisters!!!  We are not crushed, in despair, abandoned, or destroyed.  Don’t give up or give in.  

“But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”  I Corinthians 15:57