Good morning! It’s Friday, September 26, 2025. Have you ever noticed that the moment you decide to do something good, resistance shows up? You set your alarm early for the gym… and somehow you sleep right through it. You finally get in the car… and hit every red light on the way. You arrive at the gym… only to realize your bag is still sitting at home by the door. It’s almost like before you can even start resistance training, the resistance has already begun!
Life with God can feel that way too. The moment you set out to build, grow, or change for Him, obstacles pile up. But what if the resistance isn’t just in the way—what if the resistance is the training?
Today's Reading:
Ezra 4; Psalms 113; Psalms 127; Luke 9
Scripture
“Then the peoples around them set out to discourage the people of Judah and make them afraid to go on building.” (Ezra 4:4)
Observation
Every time God begins a work of revival, resistance follows close behind. Ezra records how, as soon as the foundation of the temple was laid, opposition rose up. First came offers of “help” that weren’t really help. When discernment shut that door, discouragement and fear came knocking. Then, when that didn’t stop them, political pressure and accusations were filed to stall the work.
Revival is rarely uncontested. Resistance is often the proof that you’re on the right track.
Application
I’ve noticed this in life and ministry: just when momentum is building, resistance shows up. It could be criticism, fatigue, unexpected setbacks, or even friendly offers that would have led to compromise. Opposition doesn’t mean you’ve missed God’s will—it may mean you’ve hit a nerve.
Resistance is the training that builds faith.
So, what do we do when resistance comes?
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Discern — Unity isn’t built in compromise. Not every open hand is from God. Sometimes “help” is a disguised distraction.
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Stand — Don’t let fear or discouragement dictate obedience. Courage grows in resistance.
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Wait — God’s timing prevails. Opposition may delay the work, but it can’t destroy God’s purposes.
Revival is often marked by resistance. Opposition doesn’t stop God’s plan; it strengthens my faith.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for reminding me that resistance is not the end of revival—it’s part of it. When discouragement rises or opposition presses in, help me to discern wisely, stand firmly, and wait patiently on You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
—Chris Kiriakos