The Desire of Ages--22--Imprisonment and Death of John

[Beacon]

"God never leads His children otherwise than they would choose to be led, if they could see the end from the beginning, and discern the glory of the purpose which they are fulfilling as co-workers with Him."

"Not Enoch, who was translated to heaven, not Elijah, who ascended in a chariot of fire, was greater or more honored than John the Baptist, who perished alone in the dungeon."

"Unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake.

" Philippians 1:29"." Of all the gifts that Heaven can bestow upon men, fellowship with Christ in His sufferings is the most weighty trust and the highest honor."

Are "WE" willing to cheerfully suffer for the sake of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ the One who was stripped naked and died in a very cruel manner so that "WE" could have an opportunity to be forgiven!!

==================================

[Pastor Sean Brizendine]

Amen, Brother Beacon!!

Are you thankful for God's leading?

"God never leads His children otherwise than they would choose to be led, if they could see the end from the beginning, and discern the glory of the purpose which they are fulfilling as co-workers with Him. Not Enoch, who was translated to heaven, not Elijah, who ascended in a chariot of fire, was greater or more honored than John the Baptist, who perished alone in the dungeon. 'Unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake.' Philippians 1:29. And of all the gifts that Heaven can bestow upon men, fellowship with Christ in His sufferings is the most weighty trust and the highest honor." {The Desire of Ages, page 224, paragraph 5}

Christ was crucified so we could have a new heart. He died of a broken heart, and it as we behold His expiatory sufferings, we see the love of God in its exhaustless fullness. As we behold Christ, we are changed as we surrender to Him fully. The new heart He offers us comes into our experience of character, making us partakers of the divine nature as we understand, appreciate and yield to His love, making the word of God the continual guide of our life! As you trust in Him fully, all of the fruits of the Spirit will flow in and through your life to bless others. You can rejoice in tribulation, be patient in the trials you face, and let the light of a cheerful piety exert a sanctifying influence on those around you. Look to Jesus to lead you by His word, and trust Him moment by moment in willingly and gladly obeying God up to the light He has shed on your path!

[Richard Myers]

One of the functions of the church is to bring His children into unity of doctrine. Independent of each other, we choose to present an unpopular truth.

     "Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist"......To John the Baptist, as to those that came after him, was given the assurance, "Lo, I am with you all the days, even unto the end." Matthew 28:20, R. V., margin.
     God never leads His children otherwise than they would choose to be led, if they could see the end from the beginning, and discern the glory of the purpose which they are fulfilling as co-workers with Him. Not Enoch, who was translated to heaven, not Elijah, who ascended in a chariot of fire, was greater or more honored than John the Baptist, who perished alone in the dungeon. "Unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake." Philippians 1:29. And of all the gifts that Heaven can bestow upon men, fellowship with Christ in His sufferings is the most weighty trust and the highest honor.

Such an important truth for those living in our day. Soon Michael will stand up, He will be finished cleansing the heavenly sanctuary and thus he who is filthy will remain filthy and he who is holy will remain holy. There will be no more forgiveness of sin. The living saints will then go through a time of trouble such as never was. It will be worse than the dark ages. God does not allow such suffering to come before preparing His children by little steps that strengthen the character day by day. It was that way with Jesus. He learned obedience by the things which He suffered (Hebrews 5:8 ). Then He suffered for the sins of the whole world.

And why would God allow Satan to bring suffering upon those who could be translated without seeing death? Of all the questions asked of Christians, we need to answer why it is that our omnipotent God who is a God of profound love allows bad things to happen to "good" people? Why must those who are sealed and will never sin again have to suffer so very much? Will it bring some to the cross? No, those who are filthy cannot be moved to love God. Then why the suffering? Jesus would have suffered if only one could be saved. But, many do not understand that Jesus came to this dark spot in the universe to suffer not just for our salvation, but to set the universe on a secure foundation that will never see sin again (Nahum 1:9). God has promised this even though all of His creatures will have a free will to choose what they do. Such a magnificent all powerful and loving God we serve!!! All who love the Lord our God will live for eternity in a world without sin. The last event to take place before the universe will be safe is the powerful revelation of the power of God's grace to keep from sin. It is not the revelation of Adam, or of Moses, or of Enoch who overcame sin, but the little short ones who suffered the results of 6,000 years of sin. The last generation of Christians that live through the time of trouble such as never was (Dan. 12:1) without a Mediator is the crowing blow to Satan's charges that God is unfair. This planet is the lesson book of the universe. It is here that the onlooking universe will witness the power of love that is undeserved. The character of God will be manifest by the sufferings of His children. It is their love for Jesus that enables them to live through such a trial.

Of His people God says, “They shall be as the stones of a crown, lifted up as an ensign upon His land. For how great is His goodness, and how great is His beauty!” Zechariah 9:16, 17. The exaltation of the redeemed will be an eternal testimony to God’s mercy. “In the ages to come,” He will “show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.” “To the intent that ... unto the principalities and the powers in the heavenly places might be made known ... the manifold wisdom of God, according to the eternal purpose which He purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Ephesians 2:7; 3:10, 11, R. V.

Through Christ’s redeeming work the government of God stands justified. The Omnipotent One is made known as the God of love. Satan’s charges are refuted, and his character unveiled. Rebellion can never again arise. Sin can never again enter the universe. Through eternal ages all are secure from apostasy. By love’s self-sacrifice, the inhabitants of earth and heaven are bound to their Creator in bonds of indissoluble union.

The work of redemption will be complete. In the place where sin abounded, God’s grace much more abounds. The earth itself, the very field that Satan claims as his, is to be not only ransomed but exalted. Our little world, under the curse of sin the one dark blot in His glorious creation, will be honored above all other worlds in the universe of God. Here, where the Son of God tabernacled in humanity; where the King of glory lived and suffered and died,—here, when He shall make all things new, the tabernacle of God shall be with men, “and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself shall be with them, and be their God.” And through endless ages as the redeemed walk in the light of the Lord, they will praise Him for His unspeakable Gift,—  Desire of Ages 26.
Immanuel, “God with us“.

[Beacon]

"Through Christ’s redeeming work the government of God stands justified. The Omnipotent One is made known as the God of love."

"Satan’s charges are refuted, and his character unveiled."

"Rebellion can never again arise. Sin can never again enter the universe."

"Through eternal ages all are secure from apostasy. By love’s self-sacrifice, the inhabitants of earth and heaven are bound to their Creator in bonds of indissoluble union."

"The work of redemption will be complete."

"In the place where sin abounded, God’s grace much more abounds."

"The earth itself, the very field that Satan claims as his, is to be not only ransomed but exalted. Our little world, under the curse of sin the one dark blot in His glorious creation, will be honored above all other worlds in the universe of God." "

Here, where the Son of God tabernacled in humanity; where the King of glory lived and suffered and died,—Here, when He shall make all things new, the tabernacle of God shall be with men, “and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself shall be with them, and be their God.” And through endless ages as the redeemed walk in the light of the Lord, they will praise Him for His unspeakable Gift."

Let "US" join together in Song & Praise as "WE" journey forward to "Our Eternal Home"

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1
Redeemed—how I love to proclaim it!
Redeemed by the blood of the Lamb;
Redeemed through His infinite mercy,
His child, and forever, I am.
 
Redeemed, redeemed,
Redeemed by the blood of the Lamb;
Redeemed, redeemed,
  His child, and forever, I am.
2
Redeemed and so happy in Jesus,
No language my rapture can tell;
I know that the light of His presence
With me doth continually dwell.
3
I think of my blessed Redeemer,
I think of Him all the day long;
I sing, for I cannot be silent;
His love is the theme of my song.
4
I know I shall see in His beauty
The King in whose way I delight;
Who lovingly guardeth my footsteps,
And giveth me songs in the night.

Lyrics:Fanny Jane Crosby (1820-1915)
Music:William James Kirkpatrick (1838-1921)

[Dorine]

The principle of the Baptist's own life of self-abnegation was the principle of the Messiah's kingdom. John well knew how foreign all this was to the principles and hopes of the leaders in Israel. That which was to him convincing evidence of Christ's divinity would be no evidence to them. They were looking for a Messiah who had not been promised. John saw that the Saviour's mission could win from them only hatred and condemnation. He, the forerunner, was but drinking of the cup which Christ Himself must drain to its dregs.

[/size]May the blessing and grace of Jesus be with each reader this morning. May the example of John teach us that we too can walk with Jesus moment by moment throughout this day. Is your heart calm and at peace as the difficulties of life ramp up? If not you are putting your physical and spiritual health at risk. Give everything to Jesus and He will make a clear path for you.[/color]

[Pastor Sean Brizendine]

Amen, Brother Beacon and Sister Dorine!

What a peace comes to the soul when you simply let God lead you by the Holy Spirit in harmony with His word. He knows what is best. Trust Him.

"God never leads His children otherwise than they would choose to be led, if they could see the end from the beginning, and discern the glory of the purpose which they are fulfilling as co-workers with Him. Not Enoch, who was translated to heaven, not Elijah, who ascended in a chariot of fire, was greater or more honored than John the Baptist, who perished alone in the dungeon. 'Unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake.' Philippians 1:29. And of all the gifts that Heaven can bestow upon men, fellowship with Christ in His sufferings is the most weighty trust and the highest honor." {The Desire of Ages, page 224, paragraph 5}

Can God trust you to suffer and yet stay faithful? Remember the promise found in 1 Corinthians 10:13 as an encouragement in whatever you are facing or will face: "There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it." You will never be led by God in a situation in which you MUST sin. He always has a way provided for you to be able to stay connected to Him and faithful, by keeping the heart fully yielded to Him! All of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing will be revealed in the life that trusts God's promises and stays in a converted state. Then go forth to boldly be His disciple wherever His cause needs you!

[Richard Myers]

Amen my dear friends! What a revelation of truth!!

     John the Baptist had been first in heralding Christ's kingdom, and he was first also in suffering...........God never leads His children otherwise than they would choose to be led, if they could see the end from the beginning, and discern the glory of the purpose which they are fulfilling as co-workers with Him. Not Enoch, who was translated to heaven, not Elijah, who ascended in a chariot of fire, was greater or more honored than John the Baptist, who perished alone in the dungeon. "Unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake." Philippians 1:29. And of all the gifts that Heaven can bestow upon men, fellowship with Christ in His sufferings is the most weighty trust and the highest honor.

And what were the sufferings of our Savior? They began when He first came into this wicked world. His life was one of continual suffering, for He became sin itself that we might have the opportunity to live forever in a world without sin. He suffered for the sins of the whole world. It was necessary not only for our salvation, but it was through suffering that He was made obedient. "Though He were a Son, yet learned He obedience by the things which He suffered." Heb. 5:8.

[Philip T]

  Jesus did not interpose to deliver His servant. He knew that John would bear the test. Gladly would the Saviour have come to John, to brighten the dungeon gloom with His own presence. But He was not to place Himself in the hands of enemies and imperil His own mission. Gladly would He have delivered His faithful servant. But for the sake of thousands who in after years must pass from prison to death, John was to drink the cup of martyrdom. As the followers of Jesus should languish in lonely cells, or perish by the sword, the rack, or the fagot, apparently forsaken by God and man, what a stay to their hearts would be the thought that John the Baptist, to whose faithfulness Christ Himself had borne witness, had passed through a similar experience!


     It is not for us to question why John went through suffering in prison and the died alone in prison. His testimony through his selfless life and death, gave much encouragement and strength to others going through this experience, so our lives of faithfulness to God, may be an encouragement to others around us, we may never know until we get to heaven and meet them. May we all live a life like Jesus.

[Richard Myers]

God never leads His children otherwise than they would choose to be led, if they could see the end from the beginning, and discern the glory of the purpose which they are fulfilling as co-workers with Him. Not Enoch, who was translated to heaven, not Elijah, who ascended in a chariot of fire, was greater or more honored than John the Baptist, who perished alone in the dungeon. "Unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake." Philippians 1:29. And of all the gifts that Heaven can bestow upon men, fellowship with Christ in His sufferings is the most weighty trust and the highest honor.


Such a precious promise!!

[Dorine]

Jesus did not interpose to deliver His servant. He knew that John would bear the test. Gladly would the Saviour have come to John, to brighten the dungeon gloom with His own presence. But He was not to place Himself in the hands of enemies and imperil His own mission. Gladly would He have delivered His faithful servant. But for the sake of thousands who in after years must pass from prison to death, John was to drink the cup of martyrdom. As the followers of Jesus should languish in lonely cells, or perish by the sword, the rack, or the fagot, apparently forsaken by God and man, what a stay to their hearts would be the thought that John the Baptist, to whose faithfulness Christ Himself had borne witness, had passed through a similar experience!

If you have ever wondered why Jesus seemed to be disinterested in John's imprisonment we have the answer here.

[Pastor Sean Brizendine]

Amen, Brother Richard and Sister Dorine!

When we realize that God has promised to lead us, trust Him fully, and accept His plans for us, then no matter how trying the circumstances that we are called to pass through, we can be found faithful through abiding union and communion with Christ. All of the fruits of the Spirit will be revealed in our lives without one missing as long as are fully surrendered to Him!

"God never leads His children otherwise than they would choose to be led, if they could see the end from the beginning, and discern the glory of the purpose which they are fulfilling as co-workers with Him. Not Enoch, who was translated to heaven, not Elijah, who ascended in a chariot of fire, was greater or more honored than John the Baptist, who perished alone in the dungeon. 'Unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake.' Philippians 1:29. And of all the gifts that Heaven can bestow upon men, fellowship with Christ in His sufferings is the most weighty trust and the highest honor." {The Desire of Ages, page 224, paragraph 5}

Fellowship with Christ is so precious and meaningful. Let us trust God in all we face, preparing us for the trials that come just before the second coming of Christ!

[Dorine]

Oh, how often has the life of the innocent been sacrificed through the intemperance of those who should have been guardians of justice! He who puts the intoxicating cup to his lips makes himself responsible for all the injustice he may commit under its besotting power. By benumbing his senses he makes it impossible for him to judge calmly or to have a clear perception of right and wrong. He opens the way for Satan to work through him in oppressing and destroying the innocent. "Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise." Proverbs 20:1. Thus it is that "judgment is turned away backward, . . . and he that departeth from evil maketh himself a prey." Isaiah 59:14, 15. Those who have jurisdiction over the lives of their fellow men should be held guilty of a crime when they yield to intemperance. All who execute the laws should be lawkeepers. They should be men of self-control. They need to have full command of their physical, mental, and moral powers, that they may possess vigor of intellect, and a high sense of justice.

We have no problem agreeing with these statements but how many of God's people are under the influence of alcohol when appetite is not controlled and the excess and wrong combinations of foods and drinks eaten causes fermentation in the stomach turning it into alcohol? It dulls the mind, causes irrational thinking and unchristlike behavior where the voice of the Holy Spirit can not be discerned. We may not see staggering or hear slurred speech but the effects on the health of mind and body are just as injurious. Perhaps that is one big reason we are witnessing so much dissention within families and the church.  Looking to Jesus and learning of Him we see His example of true temperance. That's why it is so important to keep our eyes on Him at all times for He will lift us into a pure and holy atmosphere where His example will be seen in our lives.

[JimB]

The witness borne of him after his death, by those who had heard his testimony to Jesus, was, "John did no miracle: but all things that John spake of this Man were true." John 10:41. It was not given to John to call down fire from heaven, or to raise the dead, as Elijah did, nor to wield Moses' rod of power in the name of God. He was sent to herald the Saviour's advent, and to call upon the people to prepare for His coming. So faithfully did he fulfill his mission, that as the people recalled what he had taught them of Jesus, they could say, "All things that John spake of this Man were true."

Is this not true of us today? We are to warn people of Christ's second coming. Why do I use the word "warn"? Because if we are not prepared it will not be a positive experience and most of the world is not ready. How many souls around us are already looking for answers that we can share with them?

Revelation 14:6 - 12

6 And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people,

7 Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.

8 And there followed another angel, saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.

9 And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand,

10 The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb:

11 And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name.

12 Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.

[Richard Myers]

Amen. We miss Brother Beacon. Let us keep him in our prayers.

I am amazed again that I see where much of what I teach is found in Desire of Ages.

   God never leads His children otherwise than they would choose to be led, if they could see the end from the beginning, and discern the glory of the purpose which they are fulfilling as co-workers with Him. Not Enoch, who was translated to heaven, not Elijah, who ascended in a chariot of fire, was greater or more honored than John the Baptist, who perished alone in the dungeon. "Unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake." Philippians 1:29. And of all the gifts that Heaven can bestow upon men, fellowship with Christ in His sufferings is the most weighty trust and the highest honor.


How many in our church glory in their tribulation?

[Beacon]

"Oh, how often has the life of the innocent been sacrificed through the intemperance of those who should have been guardians of justice!"

"He who puts the intoxicating cup to his lips makes himself responsible for all the injustice he may commit under its besotting power. By benumbing his senses he makes it impossible for him to judge calmly or to have a clear perception of right and wrong." "He opens the way for Satan to work through him in oppressing and destroying the innocent."

"Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise." Proverbs 20:1. Thus it is that "judgment is turned away backward, . . . and he that departed from evil makes himself a prey." Isaiah 59:14, 15."

"Those who have jurisdiction over the lives of their fellow men should be held guilty of a crime when they yield to intemperance." "All who execute the laws should be lawkeepers."

"They should be men of self-control. They need to have full command of their physical, mental, and moral powers, that they may possess vigor of intellect, and a high sense of justice."

How often do "WE" talk about others when "WE" should being doing a deep introspection of our own lives!!

===========================

[b

1
Search me, O God, my actions try,
  And let my life appear
As seen by Thine all-searching eye—
  To mine my ways make clear.
2
Search all my sense, and know my heart
  Who only canst make known,
And let the deep, the hidden part
  To me be fully shown.
3
Throw light into the darkened cells,
  Where passion reigns within;
Quicken my conscience till it feels
  The loathsomeness of sin.
4
Search all my thoughts, the secret springs,
  The motives that control;
The chambers where polluted things
  Hold empire o’er the soul.
5
Search, till Thy fiery glance has cast
  Its holy light through all,
And I by grace am brought at last
  Before Thy face to fall.
6
Thus prostrate I shall learn of Thee,
  What now I feebly prove,
That God alone in Christ can be
  Unutterable love.

Lyrics:Frank Bottome (1823-1894)
Music:G. Franc[/b][/size][/color]

[Dorine]

The witness borne of him after his death, by those who had heard his testimony to Jesus, was, "John did no miracle: but all things that John spake of this Man were true." John 10:41. It was not given to John to call down fire from heaven, or to raise the dead, as Elijah did, nor to wield Moses' rod of power in the name of God. He was sent to herald the Saviour's advent, and to call upon the people to prepare for His coming. So faithfully did he fulfill his mission, that as the people recalled what he had taught them of Jesus, they could say, "All things that John spake of this Man were true." Such witness to Christ every disciple of the Master is called upon to bear.

Oh that the same may be said of us. Our lives will either reveal Jesus or deny Him. I was impressed also, in another part of this chapter, with the thought that John was true to Jesus not only when bravely standing for Him in pointing out sin and calling for repentance but also when confined to his prison cell where Satan nagged him with doubts and questions.

[Richard Myers]

     God never leads His children otherwise than they would choose to be led, if they could see the end from the beginning, and discern the glory of the purpose which they are fulfilling as co-workers with Him. Not Enoch, who was translated to heaven, not Elijah, who ascended in a chariot of fire, was greater or more honored than John the Baptist, who perished alone in the dungeon. "Unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake." Philippians 1:29. And of all the gifts that Heaven can bestow upon men, fellowship with Christ in His sufferings is the most weighty trust and the highest honor.

[Richard Myers]

Satan had been so successful at perverting the gospel that even John the Baptist did not understand that the Lamb had to suffer and die that we might be saved. He believed as did the disciples of Jesus that Jesus was going to rule from an earthly throne. Satan has been equally successful today at perverting the gospel message. Most of professing Christianity have been taught we are saved in sin. They believe as did Eve, if you sin you will not surely die.

How short the time since the Baptist had pointed to Jesus, and proclaimed, "Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world." "He it is, who coming after me is preferred before me." John 1:29, 27. And now the question, "Art Thou He that should come?" It was keenly bitter and disappointing to human nature. If John, the faithful forerunner, failed to discern Christ's mission, what could be expected from the self-seeking multitude.

Few glory in tribulation, not knowing it is the highest honor to suffer with Christ.

"Unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake." Philippians 1:29. And of all the gifts that Heaven can bestow upon men, fellowship with Christ in His sufferings is the most weighty trust and the highest honor.

[Richard Myers]

Why do those who love the Lord our God glory in tribulation? The verse that tells us so, goes on to  explain why they glory when suffering.
"And not only [so], but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us." Rom. 5:3-5. Think it not strange when fiery trials come our way, for it works for our good and  God's glory.

 
To many minds a deep mystery surrounds the fate of John the Baptist. They question why he should have been left to languish and die in prison. The mystery of this dark providence our human vision cannot penetrate; but it can never shake our confidence in God when we remember that John was but a sharer in the sufferings of Christ. All who follow Christ will wear the crown of sacrifice. They will surely be misunderstood by selfish men, and will be made a mark for the fierce assaults of Satan. It is this principle of self-sacrifice that his kingdom is established to destroy, and he will war against it wherever manifested.....

God never leads His children otherwise than they would choose to be led, if they could see the end from the beginning, and discern the glory of the purpose which they are fulfilling as co-workers with Him. Not Enoch, who was translated to heaven, not Elijah, who ascended in a chariot of fire, was greater or more honored than John the Baptist, who perished alone in the dungeon. "Unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake." Philippians 1:29. And of all the gifts that Heaven can bestow upon men, fellowship with Christ in His sufferings is the most weighty trust and the highest honor.

[Dorine]

The childhood, youth, and manhood of John had been characterized by firmness and moral power. When his voice was heard in the wilderness saying, "Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make His paths straight" (Matthew 3:3), Satan feared for the safety of his kingdom. The sinfulness of sin was revealed in such a manner that men trembled. Satan's power over many who had been under his control was broken. He had been unwearied in his efforts to draw away the Baptist from a life of unreserved surrender to God; but he had failed. And he had failed to overcome Jesus. In the temptation in the wilderness, Satan had been defeated, and his rage was great. Now he determined to bring sorrow upon Christ by striking John. The One whom he could not entice to sin he would cause to suffer.

This is the character and nature of Satan. The one who tempts us to take our eyes off of Jesus wounding Him afresh. This thought startled me this morning and I saw a little deeper into the workings of the enemy of God. My heart is filled with love and gratitude to a Saviour that never leaves us or forsakes us nor ever forces us against our will to listen to Him. Unlike Satan who watches our every move ready to snatch us from the power of God in our weakest moments. Let us be watchful and prayerful continually so God's protection will surround us and keep us from falling into temptation amidst the afflictions Satan brings upon us.