“I’ve told you this ahead of time, before it happens, so that when it does happen, the confirmation will deepen your belief in me. I’ll not be talking with you much more like this because the chief of this godless world is about to attack. But don’t worry—he has nothing on me, no claim on me. But so the world might know how thoroughly I love the Father, I am carrying out my Father’s instructions right down to the last detail…” John 14:29-31 (The Message)
According to the dictionary blindsided means to attack where a person is vulnerable. On this Christian journey, only one person tries to do that to us – the devil, and he will use anything and anyone to do it!
To avoid being blindsided, it’s important to stay focused and stay close to God – always asking for His assistance and not relying on oneself.
There are lots of examples of those who got blindsided in the Bible – Adam and Eve, Abraham, Moses, Joshua, David to mention a few. Thank God for His grace and mercy!
However, some stayed focused and are examples for us to learn from.
Noah: When God told Noah to build an ark, he was single-minded. I’m not sure he even had anyone to consult or ask for advice. Despite the ridicules and for the fact that it had never rained before, he trusted God, he was focused, and he completed the task.
Joseph: He might not have known his calling initially, but Joseph was focused on living his life for God. And that is what we are all called to do. Despite living in a strange land and among foreigners, he lived to please God, “…How could I do such a wicked thing? It would be a great sin against God.” Genesis 39:9 (NLT) and he was rewarded for it.
Nehemiah: God laid it on Nehemiah’s heart to rebuild the wall of Jerusalem. He was attacked on all sides to prevent the work from being completed. Somehow, he knew that there weren’t many people he could trust but he trusted God to enable him to complete the task.
Jesus, our ultimate example, said “…the chief of this godless world is about to attack. But don’t worry—he has nothing on me, no claim on me…”
Satan tried every trick in the book to distract Jesus from His divine assignment, but he failed. He started off by tempting him personally in the wilderness, then he used the religious leaders. He even used those close to Jesus – Peter, Jesus had to rebuke the enemy talking through Peter. “Jesus turned to Peter and said, “Get away from me, Satan! You are a dangerous trap to me…” Matthew 16:23 (NLT)
Have you discovered your God-given assignment? What goals or objectives have you set for yourself? What’s your dream? Be focused and be single-minded about it. Remember that Satan can use anyone and anything to discourage or distract us from achieving our goals.
These distractions (not necessarily bad or negative things) can only be detected and overcome by the power of the Holy Spirit and being deeply connected with the Father. This can only be achieved through constant prayer and dwelling in the Word of God.
This is not a strong area for me but I’m praying for God’s wisdom and strength. I’m also praying for you if you’re in the same position.
Stay blessed,
LaraLex
Hills and Valleys 