Standing Up To Opposition

Scripture:
I Corinthians 16:8–9 — “But I will stay on at Ephesus until Pentecost, for a wide door for effective work has opened to me, and there are many adversaries.”
 
Observation:
Paul saw the need to stay in Ephesus for two reasons:
1. There was a wide open door to effectively minister.
2. There were adversaries (opponents/enemies) who didn’t want him working there.
Paul saw it as an opportunity and a challenge. Not only would he be able to proclaim Christ but he would also have opposition. With effective ministry comes opposition. Satan does not want us to succeed and will do everything within his power to stop or derail us.
 
Application:
Do I take opposition to the truth of Christ as a challenge? Am I willing to step up to that challenge or do I shy away while making excuses. If this truly is a spiritual battle, do I stake my ground and not all Satan or anyone else to derail me from ministering effectively? There is no reason for me to shy away form opposition when the Spirit is in me and God has opened the door wide for effective work.
 
Prayer:
Father God, May you instill me with your confidence so that I, like Paul and like Christ, will not fear opposition but know that you have overcome. And you have opened doors all around me that allow me to minister and serve those that need to hear or be reminded of your truth. May I never cower or be timid, but boldly proclaim Your Name and Your love.

— Jared Yates, small groups pastor, college & single adults, Reservoir campus