"All Alone?"

 "But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came." (John 20:24 KJV)

  "Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise. Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near." (Hebrews 10:23-25 NLT)

 Get this: The name, 'Didymus,' means "Two-fold," or "Twain." There must be something more to this, but for now, I will not try and put much into it; except to say that this is pretty much the normal Christian life! Matthew Henry expresses concern over Thomas' not being there with the other disciples, as if he might have been discouraged or unhappy because of the recent destruction of his hopes and dreams; having thought that Jesus, being the Messiah, would have delivered them from Roman rule. 

 This is also the issue that was bothering Judas, the one that killed himself after he betrayed Jesus. The point of the Messiah coming to free people, as to set the captives free, was the spiritual freedom, not a physical freedom that many were looking to happen. 

 Other than that, Thomas could have been kept away by sin, or work, or fear of being seen with the others; regardless, he chose not to be there with his brothers! Which, whether or not you might have been there, you more than likely have, without even realizing doing so! 

 What happens when we forsake going to church, or to a Bible study? Let's just say, it is usually not good! When God puts it upon your heart to go, you need to go, whether you feel like it or not, there is a good reason to go there! However, if we choose not to go, it is usually only for one reason, sin! Not that you are in the act of sinning, but you might; but because there is something important that you will take part in, that will help you to get free from something, and the devil knows it! 

 Anywho! You have got to understand and know that you are living in a spiritual battle! When it looks to be that you are going to make a difference towards the Kingdom of God, you are going to be a target of the devil, that you can be sure of. You must go! If God is prompting you to go, don't let there be a reason that you can't, because the enemy will try and stop you! 

 Maybe Thomas had a backache, and couldn't move? Maybe he ate something that kept him in the bathroom? You name it, it could have happened! Sadly, it happens way too often; especially for Senior Pastors and special guest speakers, as they are about to deliver a message that will take down some strongholds! 

 We are not alone! If it is God's will, then God will make it happen, regardless of what might be holding you back; but you must hold tightly to the call upon your life, whatever the situation might be, God will make it happen...

"Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching. For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. They will reject the truth and chase after myths. But you should keep a clear mind in every situation. Don't be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at telling others the Good News and fully carry out the ministry God has given you." (2 Timothy 4:2-5 NLT)