Introduction. The wonderful promises of Jesus strengthen our convictions and build the bridges allowing us to cross over our fears, losses, and weariness. Although the comfort they bring often make them our meditation of choice, we must leave time for careful consideration of His warnings as well.
We can’t “work out our own salvation with fear and trembling” if we don’t leave time to consider and watch for the grave perils we face. We are warned that while living in this age, we are still on the battlefield, facing a spiritual host of wickedness. Because all their weapons are based on deception and lies, our only protection is the truth revealed in Scripture. We are not spectators! We are soldiers actively involved in this battle between good and evil. We have been given the armor necessary to “stand in His great might,” but it will not help us if we are so busy thinking about salvation that we don’t put it on! (Eph. 6:10-18). While God promised salvation as a present possession, Satan does not see us as saved. Instead, “as a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour,” the devil only sees us as prey. Any time he finds an opportunity to pounce through the lusts of flesh and eyes, or the pride of life, he will use it (2 John 2:15-17).
We can’t “work out our own salvation with fear and trembling” if we don’t leave time to consider and watch for the grave perils we face. We are warned that while living in this age, we are still on the battlefield, facing a spiritual host of wickedness. Because all their weapons are based on deception and lies, our only protection is the truth revealed in Scripture. We are not spectators! We are soldiers actively involved in this battle between good and evil. We have been given the armor necessary to “stand in His great might,” but it will not help us if we are so busy thinking about salvation that we don’t put it on! (Eph. 6:10-18). While God promised salvation as a present possession, Satan does not see us as saved. Instead, “as a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour,” the devil only sees us as prey. Any time he finds an opportunity to pounce through the lusts of flesh and eyes, or the pride of life, he will use it (2 John 2:15-17).