What to Do When You’re Suffering from Spiritual Attack
God Uses Even These Attacks for Good
In heaven there will be no suffering, and Jesus taught us to pray that God’s kingdom would come on Earth just as it is in heaven. That is a big part of the fullness of God’s purposes being realized and fulfilled.
Suffering in God’s Will
Because attacks and problems are not always quickly defeated and a percentage of them seem to last forever, some people give up fighting and just accept that negative situation as being God’s will.
1 Peter does tell us that there is a time when we suffer according to the will of God, but that seems to be in three main ways:
- For the Gospel and righteousness. Jesus and every other New Testament teacher said that if you follow Jesus and live for righteousness, there will be times of suffering because of it.
Jesus, the Apostles, and believers throughout history have suffered for not denying Jesus, for standing up for godly principles, and to help others in Jesus name.
Severe suffering seems to come in waves and in some places more than others, but it is not unusual for believers to go through times of suffering for following Jesus.
2. When we are standing in faith and waiting for the promise to be fulfilled. When your body is hurting as you are praying for and believing God for healing, there is a measure of suffering. It is not only physically painful to wait for healing, but it can be emotionally and mentally tough as well.
And, this applies, not just to physical healing. Hebrews 6:12 says we inherit God’s promises through faith and patience. When going through seasons of lack, failure, or loneliness while continuing to trust God involves a measure of suffering.
3. While learning new life lessons. When you are working hard at your job and learning to manage your finances, there can be some pain as you keep laboring and cutting back on unnecessary spending. It can be very painful when working through relationship issues…especially when it takes a long time.
Peter’s Advice
1 Peter 5:6–11 gives some really good guidance on how to deal with times of suffering.
“Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you. Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.
But resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being accomplished by your brethren who are in the world. After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. To Him be dominion forever and ever. Amen.”
Peter teaches us about the balance of God’s love and faithfulness, our need to humble ourselves and trust God, and resisting the devil’s attacks.
Humble yourself before God and give Him all your anxiety
Remember, He cares for you, even when going through tough times
Realize you are dealing with a very real spiritual enemy who is looking for people to devour
Resist him, fight against him
Remember, you are not the only one going through this, believers in many places are also suffering and fighting
Suffering for the right reasons produces needed growth is us, so God lets us go through it sometimes; it is His plan and will
He will give you grace because He is the God of All grace
He Himself will do amazing things as you trust Him and fight the enemy: He Himself will perfect, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.
It will be worth it.
Draw close to God, Resist the Devil, Trust God seems a good way to remember the main points when going through those times of suffering.
If you want more resources on living the Jesus-centered, Jesus-empowered life take a look at www.TruVineMission.com
If you want more resources and support in knowing and living God’s purposes for you life visit www.MarkFurlongCoaching.com
