The enemy is throwing a tantrum
Social media and news broadcasts have been buzzing over recent violent attacks in Paris. This of course is a horrible tragedy and our hearts go out to those who are mourning the loss of loved ones. It is during times like these when people start thinking about ideology, religion, morality and justice. A quick look at Facebook will demonstrate a myriad of opinions, comments and emotions emanating from different perspectives and world views.
As a Christian, I believe with the apostle Paul that we are engaged in spiritual warfare.
For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Ephesians 6:12
There is a very real enemy whom the Bible calls the devil.
He has some authority: 1 John 5:19
His intention is to steal and destroy: John 10:10, 1 Peter 5:8
He deceives people: 2 Corinthians 4:4
His defeat is decreed: Revelation 20:10
I often wondered why Satan continues his business if he knows his end is coming. Does he still think he can win? Does he want to drag others with him in anger? Is he throwing a temper tantrum?
Think of a child screaming in a shopping centre. I’m sure you have seen this before. Little Johnny sees something he wants and asks mom. Mom says no and then the action starts. “You will give it to me!” “I hate you!” “I’m not moving from here!” Johnny starts throwing things around and screams as loud as possible. We roll our eyes, whisper to our friends what we would do to Johnny if he was our child and we continue shopping.
Why is Johnny acting like this? Simple, he’s angry, he’s not getting what he thinks he deserves, and now he is throwing a tantrum. I think the devil is exactly like that. A spiritual being who wants to be a object of worship rather than a worshipper. He thinks that he deserves glory and will do whatever it takes to get it. He hates God, he hates Christians, and he finds pleasure in destruction. He has been throwing a tantrum ever since he was cast down from heaven. Isaiah 14:12-14
The effects of his tantrum are widespread. We read about it on the news every day. So I am calling my Christian friends to respond to what is happening in the world with open Bibles. Think about these things theologically instead of being whisked away by the crowds. We are in a war, the kingdom of man rages against the kingdom of God. Our duty is not to pick up weapons and bombs. Our duty is to share the good news along with acts of kindness and compassion. To lay down our lives for the sake of the gospel. We shine with brightly lit lamps to the glory of our God who promises to be with us and promises to make all things new at His second coming.
I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world. John 16:33
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