Articles
Should We Look Forward to Having Our Faith Tried?
Why would anyone want to face temptation or trials in this life? The reason is simple, and God’s word explains it. We are soldiers of Christ. We sing the song “Soldiers of Christ Arise”. That is the point. We are to be ready and prepared for spiritual warfare. Paul told us to be prepared as the soldiers of his day when he wrote in Ephesians 6:10-17, “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God"
It is temptation when we are in the battle against Satan! James wrote “Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.” (James 1:12). Battles and warfare are not easy, and our opponent is fierce, yet with the strength Christ has given to us we can win. Hard-fought battles, while difficult, prove to the Lord that we love Him and hate sin. Just be sure you are prepared for battle as Paul taught us.
