1 John 5:19 – We know that we are children of God and that the world around us is under the control of the evil one. (NLT)

When people say that they are hostage to something, it means that they are being involuntarily controlled by some outside influence. Sometimes, I feel like I'm being held hostage by forces over which I have no control.

The recreational vehicle park in which I live was bought by a large corporation in 2021. Since then, we've had five managers, three activity directors, constant upheaval with remodelling, and conflict between administration and residents, as this company tries to figure out how to do business in a situation for which they have no previous experience. What used to be a pleasant place to live is not anymore, and there is nothing that I can do about it, except move. I like my house, and my family lives here, so I remain.

On top of all this, inflation is rampant. Gas prices are constantly rising without warning or apparent cause. A bag of groceries is now triple the price of a year or two ago. But I still need gas and groceries, so I, like the rest of the world, pay, despite my worry about finances.

Government leaders pass laws that are completely contrary to biblical principles or that waste millions of dollars on programs and purposes that benefit only their own selfish ambitions. Christians in government positions are constantly stymied in their efforts to make the right decisions. I pray for our leaders, but otherwise, I am held hostage by their actions.

2 Corinthians 4:4a – Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don't believe. (NLT)

We shouldn't be surprised at any of this, as throughout history, mankind has rejected God and been deceived by Satan. It started in the Garden of Eden and continues unabated. Satan actively participates in blinding the eyes of those who don't believe in Jesus and thus have no desire to come to Him or do what is right in His eyes. But there is hope!

1 John 5:4-5 – For every child of God defeats this evil world, and we achieve this victory through our faith. And who can win this battle against the world? Only those who believe that Jesus is the Son of God. (NLT)

This verse tells us that we can win this battle by putting our faith in Him, trusting our lives to Him, and letting the Holy Spirit lead us. We may not see resolution in our time, but we will have the ultimate victory when we reign with Jesus in heaven. He said:

John 16:33 – I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world. (NLT)

Because Jesus is victorious, so will we be! Hallelujah!

Prayer: Thank You, Lord, that You are in control. Help us to look to You as we deal with life's difficulties. Amen.