Satan Hinders The Work Of God

Therefore we wanted to come to you—even I, Paul, time and again—but Satan hindered us. - 1 Thessalonians 2:18

Christian work is not like other work in the world. You can be a lawyer, businessman, retail sales or any profession and deal with all the normal cares of lives and pressures but when you do the Lord's work satan is right there opposing. All christians are to be busy with the work of the Lord in their daily lives but there is special opposition and energy the deceiver spends to hinder the progress of the work of God through Apostles and servant leaders in the Church. This lesson can apply to all of us in that satan never takes a break and is always on the job to oppose our progress. We have been in situations where for some reason we felt pressure that seemed to come from nowhere and it coincided with that opportunity to share the gospel with someone or that time you were planning to spend in prayer with the Lord. It should not surprise us that our attempts to do spiritual work will be opposed.

Paul was traveling to encourage brethren, he simply wanted to hang out with the believers and share with them encouragements as an Apostle. Even his presence amongst the believers would have been an encouragement, one who severely opposed Jesus' followers know was the greatest advocate for the kingdom of God. What a testimony he had and shared it often. God's mercy was shown greatly through his life, not because of his impressive work for God but because of his great reliance on God and his mercy. Be aware brothers and sisters that we have an enemy that is real and working to stop you from being encouraged and effective in your sharing and growth in Christian life. Spend extra time in prayer asking the Lord to give you eyes to see the conflict between the spiritual kingdoms. And pray the Lords prayer with more faith as you say: And do not lead us into temptation, But deliver us from the evil one. (Matthew 6:13).