Against

<<in opposition to>>

Because of their unbelief and stubbornness, God declared to the Israelites, “You will know what it is like to have me against you” (Num 14:34). “Those who honour me I will honour, but those who despise me will be distained” (1 Sam 2:30). The choice is up to us — the best action is to obey and have the Lord’s favour!

Our complaining although directed at people and events ultimately is against God who orchestrates the affairs of our lives (Ex 16:8; Rom 8:28). Rather than focus on what is against us reflect on the victorious Lord who is for us, and the overwhelming riches available if we walk uprightly in obedience and gain the true perspective (2 Kgs 6:15-17; Rom 8:31-39). So don’t view negative events as a major attack from Satan or give them more recognition than is warranted - see them as challenges by which you can grow by further proving the power of God in your life and experience to overcome opposition.

We are told to “ Resist Satan" for as our enemy He prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour (Jas 4:7,8; 1 Pet 5:8). Satan has constant animosity and opposition towards us. We need to be vigilant and remain close to Jesus so we don't become a victim of his evil tactics.

We should hate what God hates, yet love what He loves

Jesus said a kingdom, house, and even if Satan was divided against himself, they can't stand (Mk 3:24-26). There must be the bonding and stability of unity to be structurally sound and guard against destruction. When Jesus said specifically "He who is not with Me is against Me" drew a dividing line in the sand and the people had to make a choice (Mt 12:30). A clear demarcation was established, there was no middle ground, no third option. It is just like this with salvation, we are either a child of God or not (2 Tim 2:19). We must come to Him in the way He prescribes as we don't get to decide the rules, we merely choose whether we are for Him or against Him.

Rather than giving undue attention to the evils of the world and what is opposed to you, turn your focus to "Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith" who through the Holy Spirit lives within us as believers is more powerful than Satan who is in opposition to us (Heb 12:2; 1 Jn 4:4). God is opposed to sin but loves us sinners; in fact, He died for us to prove it.