Written by Janna Shick
When a normal, rational person considers the power of God, it is unequivocal to anything their mind can comprehend. The best work of fiction or most complex work of poetry cannot equate to the Bible. Within its pages, we read of countless miracles and events where there is no human explanation, forcing the reader to acknowledge a higher Power, a greater Being at work. This authority is deeper than just a figment of one’s imagination but the all-encompassing sovereignty of the Creator of the world. The I AM who was at the beginning of time, who still is today and forever will be the same. Is it a wonder as to why the Bible has remained the bestselling book of all time? An estimate of 5 – 7 billion copies sold! This blessed old book offers such a conviction of truth and hope that no other source could possibly compete with. It tells of Jesus’ victory over death and how, in turn, it gives every man and woman a call to freedom from the binding power of Satan. It offers deliverance from every evil work.
In contrast, there is another powerful being who is also at work, yet, with an ulterior motive. An evil one who has been bidding high for the souls of man since the Garden of Eden. That is Satan. He is deceptive and cunning; easily transforming himself into an angel of light. He is the originator of offering the proverbial carrot to an unsuspecting soul, promising prosperity when it’s only an empty facade. The devil’s disguises are so realistic and his stories so convincing that he has tricked many people. While he may seem to be a formidable foe, his reach is limited by God Himself.
A wonderful example of this finite capability can be found in the book of Job. While Job was a successful business man with many flocks and herds, his perfect and upright character was noticed. Satan mocked his devoutness, stating that he only loved God because of his temporal blessings, and without them he would curse God. But God knew Job and He understood his devotion was formed out of genuine love not because of possessions. He agreed to allow Satan to tempt him, but with one condition. “…Behold, all that he hath is in thy power; only upon himself put not forth thine hand.” (Job 1:12) The account goes on to tell of the ruin that came to Job: his livelihood was destroyed, his children died, and his health rapidly deteriorated. Satan’s ultimate goal was to pressure Job to the point that he would give up his experience, to no longer follow God. “In all this Job sinned not, nor charged God foolishly.” (Job 1:22) While Satan had shown his ability to influence events, it was restricted and ultimately controlled by God.
We may not face dire circumstances such as those that Job dealt with, but be aware, Satan is still lurking about. He knows he cannot produce life, rule the world or reverse God’s will. His influence relies on misleading people. He sends confusion, plaguing the mind with doubt and unending questions. He notices the man or woman desiring to be set free from their sins. Satan sends oppression, to convince that person they have done too much to ever receive forgiveness. How could a loving God extend mercy? He tries to persuade them that they are a hopeless case with the intent of keeping them from ever gaining salvation. He sends distractions their way to keep them from getting to church.
To the Christian who may be facing difficult situations like Job, Satan works overtime to sow seeds of unbelief and discouragement. The questions will come in like a flood: “Will the promises of God really support me in the burden that I’m carrying? I’ve prayed and prayed and it seems nothing is changing. What’s the use in asking, I’m still not getting an answer.” Satan will work in discontentment, clouding our mind with forgetfulness of past blessings.
“The thief cometh not, but for to steal, kill and destroy: I am come that they might have life…” (John 10:10) Dear reader, hold tight to what you know! If you are seeking salvation, don’t give up in your search. It’s God’s will that all men be saved, no one is excluded. If you are seeking God for an answer, don’t give up – your miracle is just ahead. Don’t let the enemy of your soul convince you to give up. Luke 18:8 says, “Nevertheless, when the Son of Man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?”