A primary objective of the wicked is to turn others to their wickedness. There is a malevolence to this we dare not underestimate. Wickedness seeks to damage and destroy the saint’s soul.

We too often think of wickedness from a shallow and dangerous perspective – in terms of its physical manifestations – and consequently seek God’s deliverance at that level. This contributes to our misunderstandings about suffering and martyrdom.

Failing to recognize deliverance as a matter of the soul, we struggle to accept God’s allowance and use of physical suffering as His way for purifying and perfecting His people. Consequently, we doubt God’s goodness in times of chaos, affliction, persecution, and tribulation.

Romans 8:28 – that all things work together for good to those who love God – becomes an enigma, tempting us to take matters into our own hands. If we are not careful, we substitute our way for suffering (e.g., avoidance, resistance, and limitations) for God’s, consequently putting ourselves at odds with Him. Ironically and tragically, we accomplish the very thing the wicked are after: the damage or destruction of our soul.

There are at least two truths God has given for our protection:

1. We were created in the image of God as soul and spirit. The Holy Spirit is working to transform us into the image of the glory of the Lord (2Corinthians 3:18). We must focus on participating in that good work.
2. The physical life on this side of heaven is but a vapor in the light of eternity. We cling to the lesser dimensions of this life because we are deceived about their importance. We cling to comforts and enjoyments rather than value the time we have been given by a good and loving God as our preparation for the rest of eternity.

Truly, it would do us good to step back and assess our paradigms regarding the time we have remaining in these frail and failing bodies. Why are we here? How do we participate with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in accomplishing the “why”?

Please note, the correct answer to the “why” will be more than a simple doctrinal platitude. And we must not allow ourselves and each other to move on as if having the correct answer is the end of the matter. Knowledge without faith is useless, and faith without works is dead.

It would be wise to wrestle with these questions and God’s answers on a daily basis for as long as it takes to develop the necessary resolve to resist the growing wickedness of this season.

God bless you with wisdom, time, and attention to the more important things in life.

Have a strong day in the Lord,

Rob

#iamjustthepen