Max Lucado. Have you gotten to know him? If not, you should. He has written so many wonderful books! I am reading one of my favorites again: When Christ Comes.
In a recent chapter, Max reminds us that the devil is mad. In fact, he is pissed! He has a short window to cause as much destruction as he possibly can. You can bet he is working around the clock.
But the reason he's mad is the awesome thing! He may talk big and tempt hard, but he is hurling everything he's got at us right now....because right now is all he has. The battle has been won and he knows he lost.
Furthermore, Satan does nothing without God's permission. How does that work? The horrible, gut-wrenching effects of Satan's work are constantly transformed into events that further the Kingdom of God. How's that for power?!?
To illustrate this, Max points out a situation where a young girl who endured a terribly traumatic event that inspired her to help others with similar troubles. These are things that Satan begins....but the STILL become the work of God.
I can't remember where I first heard it, but someone once told me that if you feel Satan trying to bring you down, you should take it as a compliment. He will work the hardest on those of us who are striving to be more Christlike.
Since then, I try to stop when I feel chaos around me and think..."ok, this is good. help me God. I want to do this for you. please help me." Instantly I feel relief and it's easier for me to resume whatever journey I may be on.
So the next time we feel tempted, tested, or tried. Let's remember that no matter what Satan may be trying to do in our lives - - - it can also be used to bring Glory to God! "Be aware, not afraid [because the battle has already been won]." (Max Lucado)
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