Each of these scenes will erode confidence in Jesus if they linger with no response. Though the descent into unbelief might be less perceptible in scenes 1 and 2, each scene becomes bound to questions such as, “Is he good?” and “Does he care?” These reveal that spiritual warfare has begun in earnest.

Scene #1. I had to get blood drawn recently. The blood was to be used for a procedure in which it would significantly aid healing. A small group of phlebotomists tried one arm, then the other, and then back again. For some reason, I had no blood to give that day.

On the final attempt I prayed earnestly, “Please, Lord, let them hit a vein.” But it was not to be. I was briefly disappointed but my confidence in Jesus was intact.

Scene #2. My wife and I were using bikes that were available at an Airbnb in which we were staying. We had a nice relationship with the owners and wanted to represent Jesus well. We woke up one morning to find one bike stolen. I quickly prayed, “Lord, what a fine story to tell the owners: their bike was stolen but, amazingly, it was found.”

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