Scripture Reading: Hebrew 11:1-6
Christians triumph through the belief that what they hoped for has occurred. It is a fundamental basis of ignoring the antics of Satan and to send a message to the enemies that irrespective of the level of their wickedness, the trust in God is never in doubt.
It is what practical Christianity entails. Believing in the submission of Apostle Paul that nothing in this world can ever separate from us from the love of Christ (Romans 8:38-39). In most cases, Satan threatens the strength of our faith through attacks on earthly needs. Health, food, shelter, clothing, that are referred to as five levels of human needs, among others are the sources of the attack of Satan to puncture the strength of our faith.
Any man/woman that can overcome desperation for any of these, will most likely uphold his/her faith to the end. The story of Job is a celebrated case study in the bible. It is the lowest of what believers encounter in the hand of Satan, which is to take us away from our Creator.
Our reaction, meanwhile, when we are challenged, will determine how far we would be able to justify the claims that our faith is unshakeable.
Any Christian that is yet to face severe challenges, can hardly affirm to the sanctity of his/her faith. Abraham was tested, Hannah was test, Zacariah and Elizabeth faced challenges, and our Lord Jesus Christ endure severe challenges. In all of these, our ability to utter hopeful and kinds words, maintaining the level of our commitment to Him, and the acceptance that whatever comes is part of our trials as Christians, will disappoint Satan and enhance our faith.
We need to be watchful, especially things that we desire in life. Our carefulness will give us the enabling thought to understand the bait of Satan and run away from that, which could destroy our faith.
I pray that we will not fall into the hand of Satan, through Christ our Lord.
Memory Verse:
Hebrews 11:1
“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen”.
Baba Aladura, Elder Israel Akinadewo – FCA, PhD
Prelate, Motailatu Church Cherubim and Seraphim Worldwide (MCCSW)/President, Organisation of African Instituted Churches (OAIC)