Paul was writing to the church in Thessalonica and said “Satan prevented him from coming.” I find this interesting. Paul knew his identity in Christ. He knew he had authority over the enemy. He had delivered many people from demonic oppression. Demons knew his name. Yet, in this instance, Satan prevented him from doing what his heart desired.
Now, reading this story gives me hope for a couple of reasons.
1. It takes the pressure off each of us. We may not win every battle. You may pray for someone and they are not healed. You may give a prophetic word that misses the mark. It doesn’t change who you are in Christ. It doesn’t mean you don’t know your authority or you are lacking in any way.
2. Secondly, I am encouraged because although Apostle Paul could not visit, his protégé, Timothy did. We may not win every battle but we will win the war! What the enemy meant for bad, God used to develop and encourage a young minister.
Friends, in this life you will have setbacks. Sometimes, the enemy will be successful in his efforts to discourage us, thwart our purposes, or delay us. But know this – THE ULTIMATE BATTLE IS RIGGED! Ultimately we win. Do not allow a temporary loss to prevent you from moving forward, from achieving God’s promises and purposes concerning you. Keep moving forward. Keep preserving. You will win. The enemy may be able to temporarily delay you, but he cannot stop you from walking in the fullness God has planned for you. Don’t give up!
“We wanted to return to you. I myself tried to go back more than once, but Satan would not let us.”
1 Thessalonians 2:18 GNTD