This message is essential. You see, religion has taught us to become complacent in the face of situations; thus, we deny Jesus' teaching given to His disciples: 'And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force' (Matthew 11:12). We must reject the evil one's suggestion that small sins and illnesses are normal. This is one of the devil's lies, designed to deceive us!

Religion accepts the works of the devil, claiming that they are God's will. David, for example, acted differently, taking his rightful place in God's will. After being anointed king over Israel, the Philistines came against him. The king set aside his feast and prepared for battle. But first, he asked the Lord whether he should go to fight and if God would deliver his adversaries into his hands. After receiving a positive answer, he went into battle and destroyed them. The opponents regrouped, but following new instructions, David fought on and defeated them (2 Samuel 5:17-25).

Praying while the enemy advances is unproductive; what is effective is immediately carrying out God's command. The Egyptian soldiers, commanded by Pharaoh, were approaching the Israelites, led by Moses, who kept crying out to God. It was no time for talking, so God commanded: 'And the LORD said to Moses, “Why do you cry to Me? Tell the children of Israel to go forward”' (Exodus 14:15). Evil had to be faced!

As children of the Most High and under His command, why should we weep before Him when Jesus' example was to take hold of the Kingdom of Heaven by force—through faith? Consider the Savior's statement: 'Jesus said to her, “Did I not say to you that if you would believe, you would see the glory of God?”' (John 11:40). So, we must believe in the Word of the Lord, who never changes in all things!

In the Old Testament, the priest entered God's earthly sanctuary to offer prayers on behalf of the people and himself. He was only allowed to do this once a year, after being sanctified before the Most High. Traditionally, a rope was tied around his waist. If he wasn't right with the Lord, the priest could be struck down and never leave. Today, things are different: the veil of the temple has been torn, allowing us to enter boldly (Matthew 27:51).

We can never stand before God with fear or timidity. The Bible says that we have to be intrepid - bold - in order to be righteous (Proverbs 28:1). Without this, we will never be practitioners of divine justice. Therefore, when we want the Lord's answer manifested in our lives, we need to stand before Him with courage and claim our rights. The blood of Jesus gives us this condition!

It's up to us to resolve any abnormal situation we face or the issue of someone who asks for our help. First, we must judge whether the matter is approved or condemned by the Word; then, by verifying the testimony given in the Bible regarding that matter, assume our authority over evil works, decreeing the fulfillment of God's will.

           In Christ, with love,

           R. R. Soares