I am sure many of you, like me, have heard of the latest string of violence in the Middle East. The scene is a repeat of past events in this part of the world. For years the Israeli army occupied south Lebanon in an attempt to avert the attacks that are now occurring, but over time the danger was either forgotten or ignored and so the Israelis pulled out of the region six years ago. Since then the terrorist group Hezbollah has prepared and carried out attacks against Israel. The same problem that arose in the 1980’s is playing out yet again.

The battle between a Christian and Satan often takes place in a similar manner. He uses cunning lies to accomplish his goals. Over time he desensitizes and lulls one into a false sense of security. Most importantly he plans and prepares for his attacks. In the Bible we read of the persecution faced by the first century Christians. In Acts the seventh chapter we find the story of the stoning of Stephen, in the 12^{th chapter verse 1 the scriptures says, "Now about that time Herod the king stretched out his hand to harass some from the church." In 2 Corinthians 11.26 one can read the list of dangers faced by the apostle Paul. During this time and before, Satan was working in the world to destroy the influence of the gospel. At every turn he tried to undo God’s plan.}

Let us not be lulled into a false sense of peace when the battle is being waged all around us each day. Eli Thompson Tucker