All great love stories have conflict. There’s always an enemy, obstacle, or force trying to pull the two apart. The tension is what makes the love so powerful—because love that endures in the middle of struggle proves it’s real.
The gospel is the greatest love story ever told, but it takes place in a war zone.
This world isn’t neutral. It’s filled with real spiritual tension—between good and evil, light and darkness, truth and deception. That tension explains why life can feel so hard sometimes. It’s why you can be doing everything right and still face resistance. It’s why following Jesus doesn’t always make life easier, but it always makes life stronger.
In 1 Thessalonians 3, Paul reminds the church that spiritual opposition is real. The enemy works hard to discourage us, divide us, and derail what God is doing. But every time the devil tries to squash God’s plans, God prevails. Every setback is a setup for His glory.
Read 1 Thessalonians and pray about how to recognize spiritual opposition and stand firm in the middle of it. Because while we live in a spiritual war zone, our spiritual enemy will not prevail. He CANNOT prevail. Jesus has already conquered the grave and we live in the hope of the resurrection.
You might be feeling that tension right now—in your home, work, relationships, or even in your thoughts. But remember: the battle you’re facing isn’t proof God has left you—it’s evidence you matter and God’s purposes are in motion.
So don’t give up. Don’t retreat. Get ready. The God who began a good work in you will be faithful to complete it (Phillipians 1:6).
Visit a local church for service and invite someone who could use some encouragement and strength for the fight. Let’s lean in together and be reminded that while the devil may oppose us, he can’t overcome us.
Pastor Jamey
