Up to this point Satan has had access to the gatherings of the sons of God when they presented themselves before the Lord.

Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the Lord, and Satan came also among them. (Job 1:6)

God is patient with evildoers. He waits forever, it seems, to execute judgment. Divine judgment may be slow in coming but it is as certain as the rising of the sun.

Judgment always is executed against wickedness in people, unless a thorough repentance is demonstrated and remission of guilt is obtained through the blood of the Lord Jesus Christ. No transgression is ever left unjudged.

God's patience in allowing Satan and his wicked, rebellious angels to remain in Heaven, where they can accuse the brothers of the Lord before the throne of God day and night, is another wonder in the heaven.

But God always knows exactly what He is doing.

God has been working out a vast plan that will destroy Satan and his angels from the creation of God. God's plan includes the development of conquering saints who, being filled with Christ, will insure that never again will there be a rebellion in the spirit realm.

The Divine plan will provide a house, a rest, a "body" for the Lord God of Heaven. It also will bring forth the Bride without spot or wrinkle for the Lamb. Finally, God's plan will furnish a group of kings and priests who will rule eternally over the nations of saved peoples of the earth.

The lusts of Satan and his angels and demons are being utilized by the Lord as He works out His plan in the earth. Evil and rebellious spirits are providing a source of necessary stumbling blocks—offenses that perfect the pearls and precious jewels of character and virtue with which the Bride, the new Jerusalem, will be adorned.

Just as soon as every detail of God's plan has been perfectly developed and executed, Satan and his angels will be cast out of the heaven into the earth.

Many times we Christians fret ourselves because of evildoers. God's Word forbids us to do that (Psalms 37:1). God knows what He is doing and He is making all things work together for good for those whom He has called to be in the image of His Son—the brothers of the Lord Jesus Christ.

What has changed that Satan and his angels should now be cast out of the heaven into the earth?

There shall be delay no longer. The heavenly woman has been delivered of the Son, meaning Christ has been formed in the saints. The purpose of God has been accomplished. The obedience of the saints has been fulfilled. God is not willing that Satan should be allowed to remain in a position where he is able to accuse God's saints. There no longer is any place left in the heaven for Satan and his angels.

To be continued.