(Isaiah 41:10)
By an act of your own will, you can let God turn your scars into stars. Stumbling blocks can be turned into stepping stones. God can turn the bad things that have happened to you into something that will work for your good.
Sometimes bad things happen because of our own mistakes, faults, or sins. Sometimes they happen because of the mistakes of others—their shortcomings, sins, and failures. On the other hand, bad things can also happen when we are doing something good.
In these instances, an attack, or an assault from the enemy, is used to distract you from doing the will of God. Paul said, "…all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution" (2 Tim. 3:12).
If you set your sails to go against the enemy, you will encounter opposition and persecution for living in a godly manner. Do not become discouraged. God said that He will be with you, He will strengthen you, and He will uphold you with His right hand. (Isa. 41:10.)
In the lives of both Jesus and the Apostle Paul, people didn't exactly stand up and cheer when the sick were healed and devils were cast out. While some were happy, others were greatly disturbed and angry at what was happening. Stephen was stoned to death, and James was beheaded. Paul was persecuted constantly—not for doing wrong, but for doing right.
The good news for us is what Jesus accomplished on the Cross. He said in John 16:33: "…In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." Because Jesus has overcome the world, we need to see ourselves from His perspective—seated in heavenly places with Him. (Eph. 2:6.) We are overcomers!
Excerpt permission granted by Harrison House Publishers
Billy Joe Daugherty was founder and pastor of Victory Christian Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He was also the founder of Victory Christian School, Victory Bible Institute and Victory World Missions Training Center.
