We are not going to get by without trials and temptations; like it or not, it is a part of the journey. We were all born into a world full of trouble; in this hour, it only gets worse. All of us know, that we are to focus on the good things; not always be looking at the bad. We have to do that; if we are going to remain sane and maintain hope. But, that is not going to stop the trials from coming; tribulation comes to us all. All of the self-help, God bless me attitudes, won’t prevent life from occurring.

I don’t know about you, but I’ve found myself lately, wanting to strike back, much more than I once did. I’ve never seen such aggravating people and those who are determine to upend you and push you into responding. This world is full of offences. Jesus told his disciples this; He was preparing them for what He knew they would face, in the days ahead. I don’t think we could count all of the offences that He suffered while He walked here.

I was reading today, about how certain people, followed Him around, every single place He went, just trying to find fault. Even when the man was let down through the roof, because the place was so full, there they were; on the front row seat, just waiting to pounce on Him and accuse Him sorely.

Turn the other cheek. Honestly, I have not even heard that phrase in a long time; at least not down here. If we are real, some of us would like to slap both their cheeks, at the same time; because they likely, deserve it. It’s no wonder we have to pray all of the time.

Many folk, take it for granted, that you are weak, when you are really trying to be meek and keep the right spirit. The righteous, are going to be tried; and they are truly going to get pushed. If you are seeking to grow closer to the Lord, if you are reaching for the deep things of the Spirit, the devil knows that. Persecution is going to come; you can count on it.

I don’t want to repeat this in a coy manner; but if the enemy is not giving you a rough time today, it’s because you are no threat to him. But sooner or later, he’s got your number too. Count on it.

Lord, I know that many of us are trying real hard, to pray for those who do us wrong; those who just won’t let up their offences. If I’m not careful, I will sometimes think something, I almost hope God does hear. I want to ask Him sometime, why did I have to pay such a price for my messes, and it looks like the others can just keep on and on, with the way they are. It does not seem that they have to pay for their mistakes; how do they get away with who they are. It’s funny, I don’t ask Him that; but I already know that He knows it anyway. But Jesus, did not leave us out in the cold; He spoke very clear. Yes, offences must come. But, woe, to those who cause it.

Maybe this post is only for me; but I feel it is a clear message to many of us. Just keep doing what you’re doing; keep doing the very best you can to keep the right spirit, pray for those who’ve caused hurt too, and go as deep as you can into the Spirit.

Reach higher, dig deeper and don’t let up. It is going to come around, after while. They won’t get away or be undiscovered forever. I f you’ve paid a serious price, you’ve done your best to clean up your part of the street, and you are truly and sincerely on your knees before the Lord, then you can be assured, He’s watching it all.

Jesus, said, woe unto them. If you’re seeking to follow the Spirit, to be led by the Spirit, and you are giving it all you’ve got, the dust will settle after while. When you sincerely pray for them, it’s amazing how your heart can melt, and you no longer wish them any harm.

One day, we won’t think about it anymore.

Robert Blackburn