This issue looks at why God allows Satan to keep hangin’ around.

SINCE YOU ASKED

Did you ever wonder why God allows Satan to keep hangin’ around? I certainly have. Why is he allowed to continue his incessant stealing, killing, and destroying? If God is all powerful, why doesn’t He just say the word and be done with Satan forever? I’m sure there are many reasons, but I think I have come to understand one of the more important reasons and it’s a lesson with far-reaching implications. Are you ready?

I am convinced that Satan is still here because God has chosen to use him to give the Church training in overcoming. If you think about it, it makes perfect sense. If we, as members of His Church, are to rule and reign with Him in the coming kingdom, there’s a lot of preparation that needs to be done. What better way to prepare us than by allowing us to put our overcoming skills to the test on a regular basis? Why else would we be told to count it all joy when we encounter various trials (James 1:2)? Overcoming our trials certainly brings immediate benefits, but there’s more to it than just the here and now.

AS I SEE IT

I believe that there is a purpose behind everything that has happened in the world throughout history.  I also believe that everything is leading to God’s ultimate goal for the entire universe-the production and preparation of an eternal companion for the Son-a companion called the Bride of Christ-a “wife” for the Lamb of God. Today, she is called the Church, but one day, she will be   the bride. Since she (the bride) is to share the throne of the universe with her divine partner and Lord, she must be trained, educated, and prepared for her role. She must learn the art of spiritual warfare, of overcoming evil forces, in preparation for the tasks that await her following the Marriage Supper of the Lamb after Christ raptures us into heaven. A major part of that training involves learning the schemes of the Devil through direct encounters.

ON THE LIGHTER SIDE

Money can’t buy happiness, but it sure makes misery easier to live with.

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To learn more about Satan”s activity against Israel and within Islam, check out The Israeli Connection and Islam and the Last Days. To make sure you can withstand Satan”s attacks, check out HOW TO KNOW YOU’RE HEAVEN BOUND