I Thessalonians 2:18
“For we wanted to come to you—I, Paul, more than once—and yet Satan hindered us.”
The last time, we focused on Satan and his undercover ways. He wants us to believe that he doesn’t exist or isn’t involved in our lives. It’s all done through deception. Today we’ll focus on Satan’s influence and the sovereignty of God.
If one isn’t following Christ, then that life is left open to all sorts of interference from the evil one (Luke 11:24-26). However, if one is following The Lord, then they are protected by Him. (Job 1:10 & Psalm 34:7).
If one is a christian can the Devil reach him? Job 1 speaks of how God has the devil on a leash. He can only go as far as God allows.
Why would God allow any interference from the devil with the christian? Those times are used for our instruction and growth. Romans 5:3 & 4 say, “And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope)”.
We can’t know if a difficulty in our lives is our fault, someone else’s or satanic influence. At different times it could be any of the three with mixed percentages. We need to keep ourselves submitted to God and in prayer about our circumstances. God won’t allow us to be tested beyond what we can bear (I Corinthians 10:13).
Psalm 23 speaks of how the shepherd cares for the sheep. His rod will keep the evil one at a perimeter. We can trust the shepherd.
Lord, thanks that You only allow outside influence that will cause us growth. Thanks also for Your protection.