We’ve got your daily encouragement, written by Hannah Winslow.
Bible Reading:
“The Lord said to Satan, “Very well, then, everything he has is in your power, but on the man himself do not lay a finger.” Then Satan went out from the presence of the Lord.”
Job 1:12
Word:
As God’s children, there is no circumstance or trial that happens in our lives that has not first been filtered through our Father’s hands.
Satan is out to steal, kill, and destroy us. Although he cannot match the power of God, he is allowed to roam the earth like a lion seeking whom he might devour-until Christ returns! Satan is still allowed to influence the world by appealing to our sinful nature, and humans are still allowed their free will choice of whether to follow the path of destruction or to reach out to Jesus, the only savior from sin and death. However, in Job we clearly see that Satan has no authority over God’s people. Although God allowed Satan to attack Job for a higher purpose, Satan could not even touch Job without God’s permission.
Here’s the best news ever: Satan may be out to steal kill and destroy, but Jesus is stronger, and he loves us so much that he went to the cross on our behalf. The love of Jesus is so much stronger than the hatred of the enemy.
The second best news ever is that God works all things out for the good of those who love him (Romans 8:28). Even though your circumstances may be terrible, just know that God promises that he is using them for your good. That means that in spiritual terms you’re actually better off for it.
Prayer:
Jesus, thank you that you have conquered sin and death on our behalf! We would be eternally separated from you and on the path that leads to destruction if not for your saving grace. Thank you that while we were still sinners, you loved us and died for us. When we put our trust in you and align our hearts with yours, we are adopted into your family. In Your name I pray, amen.
Skillwork:
Consider the tough situations and trials you find yourself living in, and meditate on the fact that as a child of God, he has allowed this into your life for great purpose. When we are faithful through trials, they will only serve to bring our hearts closer to the Lord and stronger in our faith (Read James chapter 1!).
If you are half-hearted in your relationship with God, then ask him to increase your heart for him through the Holy Spirit. If you are genuinely seeking him already, then know that he has led you into the circumstance you find yourself in for such an eternally valuable reason, and that any momentary hardship or heartbreak cannot compare to the glory of the end result. Jesus is worth it, and he is FOR us and not against us!! Let’s press on together.
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