In Acts 14:22b Paul clearly tells us that as Christians if we visibly walk the walk, we will suffer tribulation (see also 2 Thess 1:4-5). Tribulation is best seen as pressure applied to us to make us give up. Obviously, this is engineered by the devil (1 Peter 5:8) but he uses circumstances, situations and people to bring this pressure. Jesus told us to expect this pressure in the world but he encouraged us by adding the we should rejoice because he has: “overcome the world” (John 16:33; KJV).

We share in Christ’s victory over the devil (Col 2:15) and we walk in Christ’s authority (Matt 28:18-20). Remember the greater one lives in you (1 John 4:4). We are not fighting people here but simply asserting the spiritual authority Jesus won for us with the spiritual weapons he provided (Eph 6:10-18).

Stand firm and put on God’s armor: “having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” (Eph 6:14-17).

Resist the devil with your armor and spiritual weapons and he has to flee from you (James 4:7). When tribulation comes, speak the word in faith. Have a victorious day.

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