“Do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.” — 1 Peter 4:12

When you step onto a battlefield, you should expect resistance. That’s not pessimism — it’s reality. And spiritually, the moment you start walking in your calling, praying with authority, or standing for truth, darkness will push back.

Peter warned us: don’t be surprised by the fiery trials. Don’t act like something strange is happening when spiritual warfare flares up. It’s not a sign you’re off course. It’s usually a sign you’re right where you need to be.

Jesus experienced this. The moment He began His public ministry, He was driven into the wilderness to face the enemy head-on. Paul experienced it. Every time the gospel advanced, riots broke out, chains followed, resistance grew.

Brother, hell doesn’t waste its energy on neutral men. The enemy only pushes back against those who threaten his ground.

But here’s the good news: resistance doesn’t mean defeat. It means impact. The pushback reveals the significance of the ground you’re standing on. If you were no threat, darkness would leave you alone.

Ephesians 6 reminds us to “stand firm” and put on the full armor of God. That’s not flowery language — it’s battlefield instruction. Shield up. Sword out. Heart steady.

When darkness pushes back, don’t shrink. Plant your feet deeper in the promises of God. Worship louder. Pray bolder. Stand longer. Because the Kingdom does not retreat.