Our friend

Yesterday a T friend told us that he is done trying out Christianity. After two years of discipleship with my teammates, he has decided that life is only harder for him and it's not worth it.

This man (as far as we know) has never fully crossed the line from the kingdom of darkness into Light. Rather he has tried to live with a foot in each kingdom, without success. He heard the Word, acknowledged it's truth, witnessed the power of God through prayer and saw a glimpse of the spiritual battle. Yet he didn't commit himself to follow Christ or submit to His Lordship.

This man lives in fear and selfishness, two powerful weapons in the hand of Satan. Just two weeks ago he asked us to pray for friends to believe with, so he wouldn't be alone if he made that choice. He also asked us to pray for boldness and opportunities to share the good news. But days later he estranged himself from us over a matter that didn't have anything to do with us. He was rude and cold, a man who is normally warm and friendly. We prayed and prayed, until finally three days later, something broke inside of him and he asked for forgiveness.

We praise the Lord for this victory in his life and yet today it is evident that Satan is not giving up yet. Our friend has made a choice that is selfish and blatantly disobedient to the truth. This can only lead to wrath and fury for him (Romans 2). My tears this morning for him were of deep sadness mixed with anger. Anger at Satan for his power to deceive and anger at our friend for his willful rejection of Christ. If only he knew, if only he could see the abundant riches in store for those who believe! Life eternal, joy, peace, adoption as sons, a sure and steadfast hope, glory--to name just a few.

I know not anymore what to pray except Lord, have mercy. May He do so, and in His infinite kindness still draw this man to full repentance.