Tug of Spiritual Warfare   

   Baby Jesus, born into Herod's world, immediately became a target for assassination. 

   The grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men.  

   His disciples, and for centuries other followers, suffered imprisonment and death, considered as threats to religious or political strongholds.

   It teaches us to say no to ungodliness and worldly passions...

   Daily persecution occurs in certain Muslim and Hindu regions, and in godless North Korea and China.*

   ...and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age...

   An age in the West where post-Christian is becoming anti-Christian.*

   ...while we wait for the blessed hope, the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ... 

   Government will stifle Christian ministries and freedom of conscience. 
Believers' thoughts will not be tolerated. It's already begun. 

   ...who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness...
   
   God's ultimate purpose for us will appear during the millennium and throughout eternity.* 

   ...and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good. (Titus 2:11-14)

   Peter said we are to entrust or commit our souls to God - the same word Jesus used on the cross when He committed his Spirit to the Father (Luke 23:46) - while we continue to "do good."* 

* From our devotional