Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:3,4
As we approach the close of the coming year, the attacks of the enemy have increased. Spiritual warfare has intensified all around us. The enemy has declared an all out war on the saints of God, but we must stand firm.
God has ordained some great and marvelous things for the saints in the upcoming year. 2008 will be a new beginning for many of us, not just a new year, but a shift in the direction of our destiny. God is taking us to another level!
The enemy knows this, so he is attempting to wear our our patience and cause us to faint. But as the scripture declares, the trying of our faith worketh patience and patience has a good work in the end. So don't consider your fiery trials a sign that the enemy is winning, see it as a sign that God indeed has a call on your life.
The trials come to make you strong - perfect and complete - so that you might do all the will of God. Always remember that God will not allow you to be tested beyond what you are able to bear. If God has allowed the test, He knows that you can endure it.
I encourage you to stand firm - persevere - in this season of intense opposition. The enemy knows that his season is coming to an end. Don't be deceived, you already have the victory - you just need persevere.
Perseverance is the next level of patience. It goes beyond your ability to 'wait well' and onto your ability to stand firm.
I close with this word...and having done all that you can earthly do - stand firm in your faith!
