Some members of Jesus’ family lost salvation and the miracle opportunities that he offered. Due to familiarity, Jesus’ family found it difficult to accept him as their Savior. In fact, his half-brothers rejected his gospel campaign and they mocked him. Jesus’ brothers believed that he was a coward, and they sarcastically ask him to go into public areas – with the hope that some elite Jews would expose his ignorance. Jesus’ brothers said,
“Depart from here and go into Judea, that your disciples also may see the works that you are doing. For no one does anything in secret while he himself seeks to be known openly. If you do these things, show yourself to the world” (John 7:3-4). Worse still, the Pharisees who knew Jesus’ family also ridiculed and said, “We know where this Man is from; but when the Christ comes, no one knows where He is from” (John 7:27). However, Jesus responded to his critics and said, “You both know me, and you know where I am from; and I have not come of myself, but He who sent me is true, whom you do not know. But I know Him, for I am from Him, and He sent me” (John 7:28-29).
Lesson:
Devil is always jealous of Jesus’ achievements, and he would attempt anything to express his rage. He would attempt to attack Jesus’ followers also. Satan would try anything that comes to his mind and use it against Christians, with the hope that he might cause them to derail. The enemy may launch opposition from friends and family; trials may come from distant places also. However, the Scripture has made it clear that Satan cannot overcome God’s children. He may try, but he will fail! Since he could not prevail over Jesus, neither would he prevail over Jesus’ followers! God’s grace is sufficient for believers to overcome Satan and live triumphantly on earth. Hallelujah!
Prayer:
I command Satan to get lost and stop harassing me! Devil is a liar and a loser. He cannot win his battle against my soul. My spirit, soul, and body are embedded inside the blood of Jesus Christ. Since Jesus has died and resurrected from the dead, I am powerful! Any Satan’s attempt to frustrate my efforts is just a waste of time. I am not an ordinary person since I am a child of God. The secret of my strength and achievement is kept at the center of Jesus’ heart; therefore, I am a winner today, tomorrow, and forever! Amen.