Jan 10

How far can Satan inflict pain and suffering into our lives? Only as far as God will let him. Twice in the opening chapters of Job this truth is clearly stated. This is a comfort to us. For God never promised us that we would never suffer in this life, even if we follow him. In fact, he said that those who follow him would certainly suffer.

But the comfort comes from knowing that God will permit us to suffer for his sake only to that extent to which we can bear--and we can bear whatever he decides because he has also promised to give us grace for each such occasion.

But there is another side to the story of suffering. We sometimes suffer because we sin. When we sin, God is under no obligation to protect us from suffering.

When we sin, we remove ourselves from God's protection. That is why Satan tries so hard to get us to sin, because he knows that he is no match for God as God daily provides us protection from this enemy. But if Satan can get us to sin, then he knows that we remove ourselves from God's covering and then he is able to assault us. No wonder Scripture admonishes so constantly to be on guard against sinning.It is for our own good and protection.

God loves us. He hates sin. So should we.

Scripture for today: 1 Ptr. 4:12-19; 1 John 5:18
Thought for today: Sin takes over unless we let Jesus take over.
Prayer for today: I thank you, Lord, for your power. You do not let the enemy assault me except that it first passes through your hands, as you did for your servant Job. Thank you for protecting me.

JAN 10