“this…is a test” – 1 Peter 4:16
“But if anyone suffers as a Christian, he is not to be ashamed, but is to glorify God in this name.” (See 1 Peter 4:16) Christians are targets. We are rocking bulls eye’s on our t-shirts. We are constantly messed with by people whether it be physical, mental or emotional. AND…then we are messed with by the demonic. It just happens. Part of being on God’s winning team. And it’s these demons – fallen angels who have zero better to do – that will run amok through your life like a crazy puppy through your house. Could be small things or it could be insane set-ups that throw you and yours for loopty-loops. You have to be careful. You have to discern. You have to PRAY. You have to bail that pesky evil from your personal bubble by relying on the power the Holy Spirit has equipped us with. Praise God you are doing so powerful a work in His name that people – or demons – stop to take notice. Peter also said this in verse 12: “Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you.” It’s not strange, it’s a test.