During the Israelites' journey out of Egypt, which symbolizes our journey toward the heavenly Canaan, the Heavens, the Hebrews encountered temptations. Because they did not avoid giving in to them, they died, and their bodies fell in the desert (1 Corinthians 10:1-5). That journey should have been smooth and successful, as ours should be. However, those who despise the Word also succumb to sin without accomplishing the work (1 Corinthians 10:6-12).

         Many Christians do not seek to know how to act in the face of temptations that arise to prevent them from doing the Lord's work. They come with all the devil's strength to try to make them despair or lead them to take secret actions that will prevent them from fulfilling the Most High's plan. Remember: we will go before the judgment seat of Christ to answer for the works, decisions, or fears we have made or accepted (2 Corinthians 5:10).

             If temptation surrounds us, there is much more of the Lord around us than the suggestions of the evil one, as the Bible declares: Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, (Hebrews 12.1). Will we set aside God's promises to believe Satan's lies?

         Let us examine how Paul avoided the enemy's tricks regarding going to Jerusalem, keeping what God told him: But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God. (Acts 20.24). As for Christians today, even a cold day, for example, causes many of them not to go to church for fear of catching a disease or being mugged on the way. Mercy!

         Fear causes many people to live on the edge and ready to avoid any persecution for the sake of Christ and His Word. They are in great danger! Although they say they have faith in Christ, they live in suspicion that the Most High will not help them. The Israelites fell in the desert because of their unbelief. Paul reached the end of his days saying: I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.  (2 Timothy 4.7).

          The apostle was in Caesarea, at the house of the evangelist Philip, who was accompanied by his four daughters who prophesied. These were memorable days, which did tremendous good to the souls of all who were present there. A prophet named Agabus had arrived, whose ministry Paul knew well. The apostle knew that this man always brought a message from God. Paul then understood the message from Heaven, warning him about what would happen to him in Jerusalem (Acts 21:8-12), and he remained steadfast in his faith.

         May the apostle's response to those who begged him not to go to Jerusalem help people who are desperate in the face of a threat! Then Paul answered, “What do you mean by weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.” (Acts 21.13). Believe in Christ to live eternally in Heaven!

          In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares.