When we learn about Jesus of Nazareth in the Word, it does us good, whether we are thinking of following Christ or have already been on this blessed journey for a long time. Every time we hear about the Savior, according to what the Scriptures say about Him, we will be blessed with the faith that gives us power to move mountains and deliver us from the devil (Mark 11:22-24).

Pay attention to the biblical account that speaks about the devil, whose goal is to remove us from our position in Christ. The following passage describes what happened to Jesus in the desert, shortly after He was baptized by John the Baptist. Satan appeared and subtly tried to make the Savior doubt who He was: “If You are the Son of God, command that these stones become bread.” (Matthew 4.3b). The Master's response was to quote the Word of God (Deuteronomy 8:3). Do the same!

Another good example is that of King David, who understood that his enemies were many and wanted to destroy him. So he declared this to the Lord, but at the same time, he showed firmness before the Most High. There is nothing better than to act as David did when we want to get rid of the evil one. The Scriptures declare: My enemies would hound me all day, for there are many who fight against me, O Most High. Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You. (Psalm 56.2,3). Do the same and believe!

Another who sought to remove us from doubt was Paul, when he felt an impossibility and reversed it using the Word of God: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things, I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.  I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. (Philippians 4.12,13). The apostle did not disregard Heaven's instructions and serves as a model for us to follow!

Joel, the prophet used to inform us about the baptism in the Holy Spirit, a blessing to be taught to others, spoke of King Jehoshaphat's attitude toward the confederation of nations gathered to destroy Israel: “For behold, in those days and at that time, when I bring back the captives of Judah and Jerusalem, (Joel 3.1). The captivity of fear of the devil has imprisoned God's people in our days, but the solution is not to fear evil.

Jehoshaphat had gathered the people in Jerusalem to present the problem to God, then a prophet came with the divine message (2 Chronicles 20:1-19). The king led the people into battle, but in the face of the enemy, he praised the Lord. Jehoshaphat's steadfastness caused the enemies to destroy themselves, looking at each other and killing each other. Israel only had to take their wealth to Jerusalem, and this lasted four days. With God, our war brings us profit!

Joel instructed us on how to proceed after being filled with the Holy Spirit: I will also gather all nations, and bring them down to the Valley of Jehoshaphat; and I will enter into judgment with them there on account of My people, My heritage Israel, whom they have scattered among the nations; they have also divided up My land. (Joel 3.2). Believe: the valley of Jehoshaphat is the place where we will act with boldness!

In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares.