"We die daily," said the apostle. This was life for the early Christians as they went everywhere risking their lives. We don't face those same brutal persecutions today, but if we did, God would give us the grace to endure. The challenges we face now, though outwardly less terrifying, can be more dangerous.

We deal with the world's sneers, but its flattery and false kindness are worse. Our risk is becoming wealthy and proud, conforming to this world's ways, and losing our faith. Even if wealth isn't a trial, worldly worries can be just as harmful. The devil doesn't mind if we're torn apart by the lion or smothered by the bear, as long as he weakens our love for Christ and trust in Him.

I worry the church might lose its integrity in these comfortable times more than in the rough ones. We must stay alert now because we're crossing enchanted ground, and could easily fall asleep to disaster unless our faith and love for Jesus are real and fervent. Many today may seem like believers but aren't truly God's children. Christians, don't think you can forgo vigilance or passion. You need them more than ever. May the Holy Spirit show His power in you so that you can declare, in all situations, "We're more than conquerors through Him who loved us."