To the editor:

The May 28 Journal-World article entitled “Tiny town had close call with monster tornado” supports the power of prayer when dealing with the Prince of the Power of the Air. However, Job’s children encountered this power when God allowed Satan to attack Job the first time.

Another example is when Jesus directed his disciples to cross Lake Galilee. Later, as they were struggling against the wind in Mark 6, an unusual comment is made in the text, “He intended to pass them by.” However, they cried out and he rescued the disciples. I believe Jesus was going to pass them by because he was put out with them because they had not learned the many lessons from the first time he was in the boat with them (Mark 4:35-41). Mark 6:52 says, “Their hearts were hardened.”

There are two common ways in which followers of Christ are remiss in dealing with Satan. First, we fail to recognize Jesus gives us the authority to resist the devil. Our second failure as Jesus’ disciples is that we let our fears affect our walk. Job said, “The thing I feared the most came upon me.” The hedge of protection that he had was lost because he allowed fear to trump his belief in God to protect his children. Jesus rebuked his disciples because of their unbelief.

God says, “Fear not.” “Satan goes around as a roaring lion seeking him whom he may devour.” We can pray in faith, without fear, and Satan will flee; whether in a tornado or in our concern about our children.