4-23-2012 by Boyd Bailey “Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift all of you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.” Luke 22:31-32 Satan is always on the prowl to discredit the faith of sincere disciples. He asks the Almighty if he can flush out the mercenaries who only see Jesus as a means to their own end. The Lord does give the devil permission at times (like with Job) to strain His children with temptation and trials. However, the enemy learns quickly that Jesus increases the intensity of His intercession for those being badgered by Satan’s schemes. A tested faith is an opportunity to grow from inspiration to transformation. We may deny Christ at times, but He does not deny us. We may lose faith, but He remains faithful. In our weakness, He is strong. Stumbling in our faith provides an opportunity for faith building. Emotional expression converts to willful commitment—post our predicament. Out of our tests of faith He brings success, so that we can help other followers of Jesus. "Does Job fear God for nothing?" Satan replied. "Have you not put a hedge around him and his household and everything he has? You have blessed the work of his hands, so that his flocks and herds are spread throughout the land. But now stretch out your hand and strike everything he has, and he will surely curse you to your face." (Job 1:9-11 NIV) Are you ready for God's next step? Have you prayerfully prepared? Indeed, God may have a small step of suffering for you before your next significant step of faith. See a temporary delay as a divine detour to build your faith before your next move. As you spiritually spar with Satan, be brave, since your Savior prays for you. Your inner strength forged in spiritual fights becomes energy to effectively engage your external challenges. Like a trusted trainer who cares for and instructs a boxer who collapses on a stool in his corner, so Christ soothes your emotional cuts and bruises with His loving grace, He teaches you with wisdom. However, the Lord strengthens you so you can strengthen those whose faith is sputtering. There is a tear in every church pew—a dear saint who is waiting for a Christ follower like you to share from caring eyes your own liquid love. Your tested faith transformed by the Holy Spirit welds heaven's salvation to save souls! “And with many other words he [Peter] testified and exhorted them, saying, “Be saved from this perverse generation.” Then those who gladly received his word were baptized; and that day about three thousand souls were added to them. And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. Then fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles.” Acts 2:40-43, NKJV Prayer: Lord, whom can I strengthen in the faith by the strength You have given me? Related Readings: 2 Corinthians 13:5; Hebrews 11:17; James 1:3; Revelation 2:10