In our last post, Part 2 of Devious Devils, we spoke about the sneaky ways of the enemy. He is so very slick. But, we don’t have to fear. We have an answer to deal with his tactics.

The second part of that passage of Scripture tells us:

“You're not the only ones plunged into these hard times. It's the same with Christians all over the world. So keep a firm grip on the faith. The suffering won't last forever. It won't be long before this generous God who has great plans for us in Christ—eternal and glorious plans they are!—will have you put together and on your feet for good. He gets the last word; yes, he does.” – 1Peter 5:8-11 (The Message Bible)

Or, once again from the King James Version:

[9]Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. [10] But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you. [11] To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

Let’s examine this briefly (you can do a more thorough investigation in your study time).
1 – You are not alone
2 – Fainting is not an option – hold on!
3 – Suffering is universal to the Christian experience
4 – God will mature you and establish you – strengthen and settle you. You will be on your feet!

So, don’t fall out when the going gets rough. As a Christian, you are in this for the long haul and the rewards are worth the effort.

My pastor sings a song that I think was originally performed by Douglas Miller. The words are something like this …. “though the storms keep on raging in my life…and sometimes it’s hard to tell the night from day… the hope I have within is reassured…as I lift my eyes upon that distant shore…I know that He will lead me to that blessed place He has prepared...but if the storms don’t cease…and if the winds keep on blowing in my life…my soul has been anchored in the Lord!” Now, don’t get on my inability to get all the words right – just catch the point behind the lyrics. (smile)

Just like the passage of Scripture, this song tells us that we must remain stedfast in our faith. Our suffering or going through is not a surprise to our Father in Heaven and He can use these things that are going on in our lives to do something positive for us. He will make us more mature and stronger in our faith.

When I think of this passage, I also think about a plant or a tree. As the plant grows from a seed into a real plant with roots and leaves, maturing and establishing takes place. And before long, that seed has turned into a healthy plant, strong and mighty. The same with us – we must go through to get to the place where God wants us to be. Most times, our adversaries will throw things in our way – as sneaky as they are - but praise be to God, we are already victorious! God has the last say-so! So, kick those devious devils to the curb!