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Fighting Against God

 


Anyone who has ever stood their ground against God did not stand for long. It begs the question, “Why would anyone fight against God?” There are some who fight against God knowing full well what they are doing. However, there are examples of those who fight against Him not realizing it is His hand they are against.

An example of such is found in the early history of the church. The high priest, the scribes, Pharisees, and Sadducees were fighting against the mighty hand of God. They wanted the preaching of Jesus to stop. They did everything within their power to hinder the spread of the gospel.

In Acts chapter 5, we read of the apostles being thrown into prison for their refusal to stop preaching Jesus and Him crucified (Acts 5:17-21). However, while they were in prison Luke records, “But at night an angel of the Lord opened the prison doors and brought them out, and said, ‘Go stand in the temple and speak to the people all the words of this life.” (Acts 5:19-20)

The next morning, the officers found the prison doors locked and the guards in place. However, they apostles were not there. Instead, they found the apostles, “…standing in the temple and teaching the people!” (Acts 5:25)

All their effort to hinder the spreading of the gospel was in vain. They were not fighting against mere men as they supposed. Rather, they were fighting against the mighty hand of God. As the Lord later told Saul, “It is hard for you to kick against the goads.” (Acts 9:5)

It is a great joy for us to know that we are a part of this glorious church today that belongs to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! There are many forces that will come against us, but their efforts will all be in vain. They are not fighting against us as they suppose, but they too are fighting against the mighty hand of God.

Therefore, as we face various obstacles in the church today, we must never become discouraged. It is our God that fights for us. Over the centuries, man has tried to silence those who profess faith in the Almighty. Their efforts have all failed. They have not yet learned they are not fighting against man, but against God.

Remember the advice that Gamaliel gave to the counsel. He said, “And now I say to you, keep away from these men and let them alone; for if this plan or this work is of men, it will come to nothing; but if it is of God, you cannot overthrow it – lest you even be found to fight against God.” (Acts 5:38-39)

Therefore, let us never lose heart. We stand on the winning side. We stand with God.

God Bless each of you,

Eric Hicks

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