Treasures In The Midst Of Adversities
But I will tarry at Ephesus until Pentecost. For a
great door and effectual is opened unto me, and
there are many adversaries (1 Corinthians 16:8-9).
The Apostle Paul, in the scripture above
acknowledged that a great and effectual
window of opportunity was open to him for ministry
in Ephesus. Howbeit, it was an opportunity in the midst
of adversities. He was sensitive enough in his spirit
not to see the opportunity alone; he saw the many
adversaries as well. It’s like finding a treasure amongst
thorns and thistles; and in a sense, that’s a trap. If you
must take that treasure, you must then know what to
do with the adversaries.
The adversaries that Paul referred to weren’t
just negligible enemies; they were ferocious! When
he recounted his experience later, he said, “For we
would not, brethren, have you ignorant of our trouble
which came to us in Asia, that we were pressed out of
measure, above strength, insomuch that we despaired
even of life” (2 Corinthians 1:8). Then in 1 Corinthians
15:32, he said he fought with beasts in Ephesus: “If
after the manner of men I have fought with beasts
at Ephesus….”
The experience was life-threatening, but by
yielding to the leading and guidance of the Spirit, he
prevailed. Paul preached and taught the Word with
such intensity and passion in Ephesus, and the Bible
records specifically that the Word of God grew mightily
in Ephesus, and prevailed (Acts 19:20). There’s much
for us to learn in our Christian walk to help us achieve
the things God has planned for us, and to live the life
of glory and victory that He’s given us. But you’ve got
to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit at all times.
He gave us the Holy Spirit to guide us in all of life’s affairs.
Before you take up that job, or go into that
business, or take that major step, let Him guide you
and show you the future of whatever you’re getting
into. Pray in tongues fervently, because lurking around
that treasure could be adversities. But as you fellowship
with the Spirit, He’ll guide you to identify possible
adversities?pitfalls, barricades, or troubles?and
navigate you through them triumphantly.
Confession
The Lord is my refuge and strength, an ever-present help in
trouble! He lives in me and guides me to overcome all the way.
Irrespective of the adversaries, adversities, challenges and
contrary winds, my heart is stayed on the Lord who is my
rock and fortress, my protection, and salvation. I walk in victory,
and in the dominion of the Word today. Hallelujah!
Further study:
Psalm 27:1-3; 2 Corinthians 4:17-18
1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Matthew 26:1-30
exodus 32-33
2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Matthew 13:1-9
Genesis 38