Two Kingdoms

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Two Kingdoms

Job 1:9-10 “Then Satan answered the Lord, ‘Does Job fear God for nothing? Have you not made a hedge about him and his house and all that he has, on every side? You have blessed the work of his hands, and his possessions have increased in the land.'”
Within the spiritual world there are two kingdoms: the kingdom of light, which is ruled by the God of heaven, and the kingdom of darkness, which is ruled by Satan. For those who understand this truth and recognize the havoc that Satan and his demons are causing in our world, it is tempting to succumb to fear. But this is not necessary for those who are citizens of God’s kingdom.
Though the power of Satan is very strong and real God places limits on what he can do. The power of God within us is greater than any other power there is and nothing can happen that God does not allow.
One day Satan and God were talking. God spoke about His faithful servant Job and pointed out how this man was blameless and upright, fearing God and turning away from evil. Satan responded by accusing Job of following God only because his life was pleasant and trouble-free. As the story progressed God allowed Satan certain opportunities to test Job with painful difficulties. Though Job struggled with the disasters that befell him, he remained faithful to God, passing the test, and receiving many blessings in the end.
Though the story may seem concerning, I found some very comforting thoughts within the details. First, Satan recognized that God had made a hedge around Job and his house. No one was able to get through this protective barrier without God’s permission – not even a powerful enemy. What a comfort to know that nothing happens by chance or mistake. There is never a chink in God’s security system or a stealthy invader who can slip through unnoticed. We are completely safe under God’s protective care.
Secondly, when attacks from the kingdom of darkness come, the enemy can go only so far. Just as God allowed Satan to test Job in certain areas but kept him from taking Job’s life, God will sometimes agree to allow certain difficulties in our lives. But we can be sure that when that happens, He means to use the circumstances for our good. God will never allow a trial to be more than we can handle and will make a way for us to bear it when we keep our eyes focused on Him.
Thirdly, the rewards of remaining faithful are worth the struggle. In the end Job had a new understanding of Who God was. He did not understand all that was happening in the spiritual world or why the disasters had happened, but he developed a deeper trust in the One to Whom he belonged. God rewarded him greatly by restoring his fortunes and doubling all the blessings that were once his.
Though passing our personal tests may not produce worldly riches, God promises that through them we will develop endurance and faith and we will receive a crown of life. He never leaves us alone in our pain, but is near to the broken hearted, encouraging and strengthening us through the process. Though we would not choose our trials, the nearness and closeness of our Savior will begin to overshadow the pain.
Yes, there are two kingdoms. But I am thankful that God has complete control. He has put a hedge around the citizens of His kingdom and NOTHING can happen that He does not allow.

Love,

Mama

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Hi, I'm Sandy! 

I write inspirational letters based on the Bible that share words of hope, encouragement, truth, and healing to my children and anyone else who longs for a mama's touch.

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