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” For I know the plans I have for you, “declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

As I completed a devotional on (2 Chronicles 33: 1-20) concerning King Manasseh, I was struck with the importance of knowing this important “Example” of how God is always ready to forgive and deliver no matter how horrible  our sins. Although I know faith in Christ’s salvation has saved me, there are times the enemy comes in with an accusation wielding a convincing blow, usually, in the worse circumstances. But it is having knowledge and faith in God’s Word that causes the devil to go and my faith to grow.

“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.” Hosea 4:6

The most important Example given on how to combat the temptations and accusations of the enemy was given by Jesus Christ, Himself. After His baptism He was driven into the desert where the Word tells us He was tempted by the devil. In all that the devil threw at Him, Jesus came “back” with one thing; the knowledge of God’s Word. He didn’t focus at all on Himself, although He had every right to, but with every temptation He matter -of- factly, without engaging or prolonging the conversation”,  asserted what He Knew, was the Truth.
(Matthew 4:1-11)

“These things happened to them as examples for us. They were written down to warn us who live at the end of the age.” 1 Corinthians 10:11 (my emphasis)

Recently, I experienced one of the most fiery trials since I have come to faith. I was suffering physically with the Coronavirus, while receiving a convincing curse from the devil along with his legitimate accusations. I say convincing and legitimate because the curse I received from the person’s comments on my blog fell in line with the dates and events while suffering this disease.

“Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:  But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.”
1 Peter 4:12-19

The accusations were not unjustifiable but were accurate concerning my present and past failures and sins. So all I was experiencing, physically, mentally and emotionally, seemingly,  had the appearance of the accuser’s upper hand. So I got honest with the Lord, admitting I was afraid.

“When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.” Psalm 56:3

The victory comes by praising Him in the midst of all uncertainty, recalling His past faithfulness while taking Him at His Word. He is merciful, forgiving and understanding, and when we remember to call on His Name, He will do what He alone can do.

It wasn’t a miracle of deliverance, a sudden healing, a word of encouragement or even His presence He wanted me to seek. The Lord left me with one option; and choice; would I recall His faithfulness , His Word , while knowing in confidence what He had done for me in the past, He would do again and again.

And all He wants from us is to take Him at His Word. Will You?

(Romans 8:1, Romans 8: 28, Psalm 46:1-11,
1 John 1:9, Ephesians 1:13,
Jeremiah 29:11)