Spiritual immaturity, moral failure, apostasy, and occult involvement seem more common in our society. The life of the disciple is increasingly at odds with the world. The pressures are great to concede spiritual ground, and to be less than steadfast in the Faith once delivered.
Mothers are distressed over the demonic entanglements of their children. Fathers are not honored, much less loved. National leaders endorse the killing of the unborn. Pastors invite shamans to perform animistic rites in their churches.
It is easy to become discouraged. However, Christians “are all the children of light”, “For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, . .” (1 Thessalonians 5:9). We are told to “look for your redemption is drawing near!” and we are reminded that “the day of the Lord” draw near.
The Apostle Paul gives us direction: “But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation.” (1 Thessalonians 5:8).
The Apostle Peter tells us, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walks about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.” (1 Peter 5:8, 9). He assures us, “. . give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall” (2 Peter 1:10b).
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