My wife and I recently watched the miniseries “Band of Brothers”, a World War II drama based on the Stephen Ambrose book by the same name. In one episode it’s pointed out to Captain Winters, the main character, that they’re surrounded by the enemy. He cooly responds, “We’re paratroopers, we’re supposed to be surrounded.”

Our lot as Christians is much the same. This world is enemy territory and whether we realize it or not, we’re behind enemy lines. Our Lord Jesus forewarned that “in this world you will have trouble.” (John 16:33) The apostle Paul instructs us to “put on the whole armor of God” because Satan has marshalled his forces against those who seek to expand God’s kingdom in this world.

Followers of Jesus need to understand the devil’s strategy (see 2 Corinthians 2:11), and one of his ploys is that he seeks to turn the battleground into a playground. Consider all the diversions and distractions that exist to lure us away from fighting “the good fight of faith.” Too many men are asleep on duty or even worse, AWOL! But for those in the thick of battle, here’s a few things to remember:

1. Trouble is inevitable.

Peter wrote to Christians in the midst of trouble: "Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you." (1 Peter 4:12) It’s naïve to think this world is a friend to grace and that if you stand up for Jesus everything will go well for you. “All that live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.” (2 Timothy 3:12) If your faith is costing you nothing, you may have been taken captive.

2. Trouble is unpredictable.

Though we’re not “ignorant of Satan’s devices,” we still cannot know when and from where trouble will come. Job’s attack came out of nowhere and before he knew it, his world was turned upside down. The battles of this life call for vigilance so that when the enemy strikes, we will not be taken by surprise.

3. Trouble is temporary.

Peter also wrote: "In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials." (1 Peter 1:6) Paul describes these trials as “light affliction which is but for a moment.” (2 Corinthians 4:17) Followers of Jesus need to remember that in our troubles God’s hand is not only on the thermostat; it’s on the timer as well. He will bring you out in due course and according to his sovereign design.

4. Trouble is an opportunity for spiritual growth.

James reminds us that “the testing of our faith produces steadfastness.” (James 1:3) In “Band of Brothers”, those who had been through tough fighting gained experience that helped them in future conflicts. The same is true for us: today’s battles are preparing us to endure greater trials that may lie ahead.

God uses life’s trials for our good and for his glory. Next week, I’ll share some lessons David learned from the many battles he faced.