Years ago I was having a casual conversation about demons after church (ha ha – no one has casual conversations about evil). I had no opinion but then a friend said, “Jesus believed in demons” and that settled it for me. I understand there are powers working against God and so I expect a bit of resistance to the idea of serving full time by way of missions. God has won, but the spiritual dark side still has an effect as we can see in the world today. I grew up in America and enjoy the freedom of expression but it is getting harder everywhere. I have never understood another person attempting to deny my right to have an opinion of God that is different from theirs. Every martyr is an example of resistance. What is between my ears belongs to me only and even a beheading does not cancel an opinion. It is worthless hostility and pure evil.
Today I read an article that suggested the following:
Christ’s followers are called to be alert (I Peter 5:8), aware of satan’s schemes (2 Cor. 5:10-11), and prepared to wage war in the spirit at all times (Eph. 6:10-17). How am I going to do this overwhelming thing? The Holy Spirit resides in me because I believe that Jesus is the Son of God and I have asked Him to be in charge of my life. Pray without ceasing. Pray for you and pray for me. God’s word is like a sword so come into your day swinging it! Do not grow weary of doing good and always be prepared to give an account of the hope that is in you. I’m so sorry, but have always been a fan of Star Wars. Even the saber is mysterious. It is good against evil but, although we contend with it, evil will not go quietly into the night. God, help us to be alert, aware, and prepared, and, oh yes, I still need my visa! We believe you are sovereign.