Some time ago, a friend was telling me about a friend who had an emergency and had to fly home unexpectedly. He didn’t have the money for a plane ticket, but trusted the Lord and at the last moment, his need was met. I’ve had things like this happen and have heard of many others. I was joyful for him, but also a bit frustrated. I asked God ‘Why does it always have to be so last minute? Does everything always have to be a big test? I realize that some testing is needed, like with Abraham and Isaac on the mountain, but couldn’t You just make it easy once in awhile?’ I was seeing God as this stern taskmaster, just the vision the Adversary wants me to have. Anyway, about the time I was finished whining I had this thought – maybe God wasn’t waiting ‘til the last moment to test me as much as He wasn’t letting Satan have any time to react and interfere. What a revelation! It changed my whole outlook. Now, I understand that, not only does the waiting strengthen my faith (testing, like steel), but I’m also a partner with my Lord in getting over on Satan.

And even if His answer isn’t the one I wanted, I know it’s the right one. This is His peace.

I was reading Matthew chapter 24 last night and as I read vss. 42 - 44, the above seemed to apply. I never really understood this parable (and I might be off base now), but this is how I saw it. If Satan is the head or ‘ruler’ of the house (the house being this world), he would see Jesus as a thief sneaking in to steal his ‘possessions (i.e. us). If he knew when Jesus was coming, he’d take steps to guard against it. This is why we can’t know the hour because if we knew, Satan would also. He says He’ll come at an hour when we don’t think He will. I think we can also safely say Satan’s in the same boat. So rather than whine, I’ve decided to just do what He tells me – BE READY.
 

Ok, Jesus, I don’t think you’re coming right this second. I really, really don’t.

 ………………..

            Hmm, I’m still here. Well, that didn’t work.

Anyway, I’m tremendously grateful to John and Ian for the work they did on Chesvan 17 because for the first time, I really, truly thought He was coming and realized I really was ready. It also gave me a glimpse of the vastness of God’s wisdom. Thank you. I also believe there was probably a massive demonic presence poised to thwart His plan and all they ended up with is frustration. Kind of a rope-a-dope. A couple of more like that and they probably won’t even bother showing up. Until it’s to late!!. Praise the Lord!

 

Brad Richard