UNINTIMIDATED

"Do not, then, surrender your confidence; it will have great reward." —Hebrews 10:35

By His death and resurrection, Jesus has won the total, irreversible, and final victory over evil. He is seated forever in heaven at the right hand of the Father (Heb 10:12). "At present we do not see all things thus subject, but we do see Jesus crowned with glory and honor" (Heb 2:8-9). What appears to us a continuing and undecided war is actually the aftermath of a finished, victorious war. Jesus is merely mopping up and placing His enemies beneath His feet (Heb 10:13).

Satan tries to rob us of our share in this final victory by deceiving us and especially intimidating us. He publicly exposes us "to insult and trial" (Heb 10:33). He hurts those that we love (see Heb 10:34). This is often worse than going through the suffering ourselves. He may even confiscate our material possessions (Heb 10:34). All of these intimidations are for the purpose of getting us to surrender our confidence in the Lord, His promises, and His victory (Heb 10:35).

Refuse to give in. "For, just a brief moment, and He Who is to come will come; He will not delay" (Heb 10:37). "We are not among those who draw back and perish, but among those who have faith and live" (Heb 10:39).

Prayer: Father, stir into flame the gift of the Holy Spirit in my life so that I will not be cowardly (2 Tm 1:6-7).

Promise: "Take delight in the Lord, and He will grant you your heart's requests." —Ps 37:4

Praise: St. Titus encouraged and enabled the ministry of others, including that of St. Paul (see 2 Cor 7:6-7; 2 Cor 2:13).