1 John 5:19, English Standard Version

“We know that we are from God, and the whole world lies in the power of the evil one.”

Have you ever experienced days that reflect what Jesus told His disciples, “… In this world you will have trouble…”? (John 16:33, NIV) I believe that just like me, you have. No one who is living in this world will be unaffected by its darkness, lies, corruption, and fallen state sometime. However, the Lord also comforted us with His promise, that He has overcome it already! He then reminded us through Paul that we can overcome and conquer through Him! Now, the questions that I have heard from many is this: “How can I be an overcomer, and even more, how can I stand without worry or anxiety during the difficult times and challenges?” I hope what the Lord taught me can give you true comfort and courage!

“… the whole world lies in the power of the evil one.” This is a statement and a fact we heard from Jesus. Who is the evil one? He is a murderer, a deceiver, an accuser, a liar, and the father of lies, who sinning from the beginning…  the devi. Hebrews says that he is “an adversary”. (John 8:44, 2 Corinthians 11:14, Revelation 12:10, 1 John 3:8) Let’s remember those descriptions of who the devil is. Now with that in mind, try to picture what a place which is under his control would be like. A whole world filled with murdering, deceiving, accusing, lying, sinning… we are living with an enemy who opposes love, joy, peace, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, who is without a sound mind or any self-control. If this was the leader of the world you lived in, what might your daily life look like? What might his kingdom look like? (John 14:30)

Now listen carefully because this is the truth of what the Word of God said:

His kingdom is false, his authority is illegitimate. And his days and along with the days of all who follow him are numbered. This world is an illusion. Everything in it, including the deception and lies, will not last for long! 

“Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell.” (Matthew 10:28, NIV) 

“What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?” (Matthew 16:26, NIV)

My dear brothers and sisters, why are you so afraid? Don’t you know that there is only One who is the Creator? All things, all of creation, and all living beings are under His sovereignty. There is no other who is all-powerful, all-present, and all-knowing like Him. Let’s end with another good reminder from the word:

“For we live by faith, not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7, NIV) Let’s join the team of Jesus, walking by believing and not by seeing.