1 Thessalonians 2:2
“As you are aware, we had already endured suffering and shameful treatment in Philippi. But in the face of strong opposition, we were bold in our God to speak the gospel of God to you.”
The last entry dealt with opposition that may be faced from people. We may not make all the connections, but we receive more opposition from the spiritual realm. Ephesians 6:12 says, “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this world’s darkness, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”
This may be shocking if one is hearing it for the first time. One may ask where is the battle fought? Much of it is in the mind. 2 Corinthians 12:5 says, “…we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”
How does the devil attack us? 2 Corinthians 2:11 says, “in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes.” He seeks to cause us to doubt God. He did it with Adam and Eve. They had everything, except the forbidden fruit. Her first mistake was engaging him in conversation. Secondly, she began to desire the forbidden. Lastly, she began to doubt whether God had good intentions for her.
We should know God’s ways and protect them. If we’ve got doubts, get them addressed. Once there, stand firm. Ephesians 6:13 says “…so that you will be able to resist in the evil day…” There will be trickles of doubt and temptation, but there will also be barrages. Paul calls it the “evil day”.
The enemy will put thoughts in us. Sometimes they are comments from others. Don’t accept them. Rehearse the truth. Philippians 4:8 says, “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think on these things.” Take captive the errant thought and replace it with God’s promise, His past goodness or “the good”.
Lord, thanks that You are with us. Help us to keep focused on You and Your goodness. Help us to resist the enemy.