Expect A Fight When You Do What’s Right.
Sunday, January 14, 2018 at 03:21AM 
“Having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost.” 1 Thessalonians 1:6
Conversion invariably precipitates crisis. In fact, one of the biggest problems people encounter in turning their lives over to God is the huge set of conflicts that conversion seems to cause. Eruptions and disruptions explode in marriages, children, relationships, personal lifestyle, finance, job and nearly every aspect of life. Some say, “I have problems now that I never used to have,” or, “This is such an uphill battle!”
This conflict represents your first clue of the enormity of your choice, and you are not alone. The disciples of Jesus were faced with the Master’s hard sayings. Unfortunately, many of them decided it was too much for them. “And He said, ‘Therefore, I have said to you that no one can come to Me unless it has been granted to him by My Father.’ From that time many of His disciples went back and walked with Him no more. Then Jesus said to the twelve, ‘Do you also want to go away?’” John 6:65-67.
Why is it this way? Why can’t serving God be easier? Why must trials and tribulations happen when one decides to follow Jesus? First, every believer has three sworn enemies. The devil. “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” 1 Peter 5:8. The world. “In the world you will have tribulation.” John 16:33. Your own flesh. “For what I am doing, I do not understand. For what I will to do, that I do not practice; but what I hate, that I do.” Romans 7:15. Remember, while you drifted downstream in this world, you were no problem to Satan. But, the moment you balked at his control, you unleashed a bombardment of retaliation.
Not only this, but every small step you make towards righteousness represents a reversal of major proportions. You are literally turning around an entire life, will all its potential, its promises and its power. It may seem insignificant to you, but it is a monumental event in the spirit world. The question is not, “Can I make it?” It is not, “Will God help me?” It is not, “Am I going to damage my life, my happiness or myself?” The question is, “Is it worth it?”
Let’s settle the question now. Yes, it’s worth it! You are doing the right thing. You are obeying the Bible. You haven’t found happiness or peace any other way. Satan is a master at exaggerating the troubles and trials of serving God and minimizing and camouflaging the trouble he causes you. Yes, it’s worth it. Jesus has answered the paramount question in your life—the sin question. Jesus has put meaning into your purposeless life. Jesus has put peace deep into your soul. Jesus, the number one personage in the universe, loves you! Yes, it’s worth it. Your life will be a beacon to others. Your courage will inspire others. Your decisions will open up the way for others. Yes, it’s worth it. You will escape the everlasting darkness of eternity without God. You will be ready when the trumpet sounds. You have a home prepared for you in heaven. Yes, it’s worth it. The afflictions you face in serving Jesus are nothing compared to the tribulations coming upon this world.
No one who has ever done the right thing has escaped the attached penalty. The choice, however, is its own reward. Right choices usher in a profound, inner peace that transcends any tribulation that they cause. It is always a fight, but it’s a good fight! (2 Timothy 4:7).
Esther Kerr Rusthoi
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