Tuesday 18th February
Read 1 Thessalonians 2:17-20
“But, brothers and sisters, when we were orphaned by being separated from you for a short time (in person, not in thought), out of our intense longing we made every effort to see you. 18 For we wanted to come to you – certainly I, Paul, did, again and again – but Satan blocked our way. 19 For what is our hope, our joy, or the crown in which we will glory in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes? Is it not you? 20 Indeed, you are our glory and joy.” (NIVUK)
There are many people who believe Satan is like Santa, not that he is jolly and generous, but that he is isn’t real. They believe that Satan is simply a useful name to describe evil intentions in the world. Satan is simply the personification of evil. The scriptures would disagree. Jesus, Job, Peter and Paul all believed in Satan.
Paul attributes his inability to get back to Thessalonica to Satan’s intervention. He doesn’t ascribe it to unfortunate circumstances, unyielding bureaucracy or capricious weather. He states he was purposefully opposed. Those who don’t believe Satan is real will usually find some way to account for what Paul experienced. In fact, the commentaries even suggest some of those above.
We are not to fear Satan. He is not everywhere. Although he, and his minions, are busy. We are to “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 9 Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.” (1 Peter 5:8-9) (NIVUK)
