Twin City church of Christ Blog
“Feb 2, 2024 - Satan Hindered Us”
Categories: 2024 Reading DevotionalsSatan Hindered Us
Reading: 1 Thessalonians 2:17-20
Shortly after the conversion of the Gentiles, Paul was forced to leave town. He describes his mindset: “But since we were torn away from you, brothers, for a short time, in person not in heart, we endeavored the more eagerly and with great desire to see you face to face”(1 Thess 2:17). Paul was parted from his brothers “in person not in heart” because he continued to think about them, pray for them, and seek to return to them. He could write letters and send messengers to them, but some matters (like encouragement) are best done “face to face.”
So if he was thinking about them so much, why didn’t he return? “because we wanted to come to you—I, Paul, again and again—but Satan hindered us”(1 Thess 2:18). He does not specify what Satan did to block his return. Is it the ongoing persecution in Thessalonica? Is it that plans didn’t work out with logistics, money, or weather? Is it other responsibilities that overwhelmed Paul? What we can know is that Paul attributes the delay not to God, but Satan. Paul insists that this was not his desire: “For what is our hope or joy or crown of boasting before our Lord Jesus at his coming? Is it not you? For you are our glory and joy”(1 Thess 2:19-20). Time and distance might intervene, but they do not change Paul’s deep love for (and pride in) these new disciples.
“Satan hindered us” reminds us that Satan is constantly at work inhibiting God’s purposes. He is behind the persecution of God’s people (Rev 12:10-17). He is the father of lies (John 8:44). He has schemes to attack believers in Jesus (Eph 6:11). Perhaps even unexpected hindrances to our work come from him. Paul teaches us to acknowledge Satan’s work, but not to let it discourage or overwhelm us. We serve one stronger than the one who sometimes hinders us.
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One Thing to Think About: Why is it important to acknowledge that Satan is at work?
One Thing to Pray For: A deeper connection to my brothers and sisters
