Spiritual Warfare: 'God Will Use Our Suffering'

God's Power for Our Battles — Monday, December 8, 2025

And God will use this persecution to show his justice and to make you worthy of his Kingdom, for which you are suffering. In his justice, he will pay back those who persecute you.
— 2 Thessalonians 1:5-6 NLT

Today's Prayer

Lord, when my persecution seems unbearable, and my suffering seems beyond my ability to endure, remind me that You have a plan, and You are keeping watch. You know everything I’m going through, Lord, and You will pay back my persecutors. Remind me that this makes me worthy of the kingdom in a way that nothing else can, Lord, and that it will all be worth it in the end. Give me hope in the middle of pain, and the ability to focus on the goal instead of on the temporary present pain. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Have thoughts on this devotional? Leave a comment

4 Related Resources by Heartlight

Evidence of Righteousness
Devo: Praying with Paul
"Dear Father, Thank you now, and every day, for every loyal soul whose faith is growing abundantly, whose love for others is increasing, whose stance...."
Make Us Worthy
Devo: Praying with Paul
"Dear Father, almighty God, Hasten your coming, that glorious time when even those who already believe will marvel at your greatness. We have..."
My Coming Again
Devo: A Year with Jesus
"Dear Fellow Heir of Glory, As God's child and as My younger sibling in the Father's family of grace, you are an heir of glory. The glory that I enjoy..."
Multi-talented Mommy Ears
Article by Russ Lawson
Does he really care about all this mess? When bad things happen, we need to realize that God does see and care and will remember.

Illustration

Illustration of 2 Thessalonians 1:5-6 NLT — And God will use this persecution to show his justice and to make you worthy of his Kingdom, for which you are suffering. In his justice, he will pay back those who persecute you.

Other Devotionals from Heartlight for Monday, December 8, 2025

What Jesus Did!
A daily guide from the gospels that challenges readers to live for Jesus.
'The Gamble' (Mt. 27:35-37)
"After they had nailed [Jesus] to the cross, the soldiers gambled for his clothes by throwing dice. Then they sat around and kept guard as he hung..."
Daily Wisdom
A daily devotional featuring wise counsel found in Scripture.
Psalm 34:19
"A righteous man may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all..."
Unstoppable!
A one-year devotional guide through the book of Acts.
'Paul Takes Charge' (Acts 27:21-25)
"[Paul and his companions were caught on a ship that was storm-tossed and about to break up.] No one had eaten for a long time. Finally, Paul called....."
Praying with Paul
Features the apostle Paul's writings turned into daily, powerful prayers.
'Discerning, not Deceived' (Co. 2:4-7)
"Dear Father, my rock, Help me to think clearly with discernment. Keep me from being taken in by the beguiling speech of deceivers. Give me great joy...."

About This Devotional

Spiritual Warfare is a daily devotional about God's power for our battles.

The Prayer for Spiritual Warfare is written by Steve Hemphill.

More Spiritual Warfare