WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 11
1 THESSALONIANS 2:17-20
PHILIPPIANS 1:6

"… he which hath begun a
good work…will perform it..."

SATAN HINDERS GOD’S MINISTRY

"Wherefore we would have come unto you, even I Paul, once and again; but Satan hindered us" (1 Thess 2:18). This shows how Satan uses strong measures in causing believers not to accomplish things for the Lord. It has been said, when God works, Satan also works, even harder than the believers. Satan impedes the Christian’s course by cutting off the way. He hinders the preaching of the Word, the hearing of it and the believing of it. "When the endeavors of Christians are directed to the work of the Lord, it is certain that everything that hinders proceeds from Satan; and would to God that this sentiment were deeply impressed upon the minds of all pious persons — that Satan is continually contriving, by every means, in what way he may hinder or obstruct the edification of the Church!" (John Calvin).

This hindrance, however, did not prevent Paul from looking forward to that blessed day of Christ’s return when all who have faith in Jesus will be gathered together. He was fully persuaded that the work of the Gospel will prosper not because of what he had done but by the work of grace in the hearts of those who believe.

Lord, may we be more careful that our work for Thee be not hindered. May we continue to labour for Thee in spite of the many obstacles that may come our way. We trust that Thou have ordained the ministries and have allowed us to serve. We believe that Thou who planned it will accomplish it according to Thy perfect design. We may falter and sometimes fail, but let not our human frailties prevent us from pursuing after the crown of rejoicing that awaits us at Thy coming. Strengthen us to rise up and labour for Thy cause and open our eyes to see that glorious hope so that we will endure unto the end.

THOUGHT: Do I persevere in preaching the Gospel of Christ?
PRAYER: "Because thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of thy wings will I rejoice. My soul followeth hard after thee: thy right hand upholdeth me" (Ps 63:7-8).