As we forge forward there are challenging times ahead. This should not
be a surprise to the believer because our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ
warned us. (Matthew 10:22)- 22 And you will be hated by all for My name’s sake. But he who endures to the end will be saved.

Jesus is
speaking to His disciples, but He is also speaking to us as well. We must
be mentally conditioned to endure until Jesus catches us up to be with
Him. As we live on this earth, we must recognize that this is not our
permanent residence. We are in this world, but we are not of the world
if we have been truly converted.
Satan is called the prince of this world because he has blinded the minds
of those he can influence. We who are believers in Jesus Christ are
called to be the lights of the world. This does not mean we should go
around rebuking those who are still living according to this world’s
system, but we are called to be representatives for Jesus Christ.
This means we are to exemplify His character by the way we live. Our
obedience to Christ who lives in us via the Holy Spirit, will give God the
legal right to manifest his authority through us. God desires to do
exploits through you and I. 

(Daniel 11:32)- 32 Those who do wickedly against the covenant he shall corrupt with flattery; but the people who know their God shall be strong, and carry out great exploits.
King Antiochus IV was a wicked political figure who appointed corrupt
priest and persuaded individuals of great status to defy the principals of
God by using flattery, bribes, and by offering material wealth and fame
to individuals who would be deceived by his enticements. He was

hostile towards Israel and those who strove to follow the commandments
of God Jehovah.
We are facing the same challenges from religious and political leaders
who embrace unethical laws and practices that are beneficial for
promoting their agendas.
I believe God is speaking and preparing us to stand against the
persuasions of the enemy and to let our lights shine before men so that
they may see our good works and glorify the Father which is in heaven.
(Matthew 5:16)-In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
Let us be attentive to yield our vessels unto God and resist the Devil. As
we obey His voice, God will draw closer to us in the days ahead.
God’s Servant,

Pastor Samuel C. Watkins Sr.