Your Adversary

“Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:”

1 Peter 5:6-8 KJV

If there were ever a time to be daily standing at the ready, it is now. It has become very apparent that the forces of evil are becoming bolder in their attempt to thwart the plans of God. No one and nothing is off limits, the enemy is coming for our children, marriages, families and churches.

The responsibility that we have as the people of God can sometimes feel overwhelming, as the attack never seems to end. How many of you have said to yourself lately “it is one thing after another” ? I myself have stated this countless times throughout the pandemic.

The above scriptures give us some instruction for how to handle and prepare for the times we are living in. First, we must humble ourselves. I absolutely cannot and do not ever want to walk this life without His hand guiding me every step of the way. If I’ve learned anything these last few years it is my need for God.

Next we must cast (throw) our cares upon Him. God is big enough to handle every single one of our problems. You aren’t a burden or a bother, the scripture also says He cares for us. When my children are upset and struggling, I want them to come to me and have a conversation so that I can help lighten their load. The same applies spiritually, we can give Him everything. Beyond that, He is the only one who can turn the mess into a masterpiece.

We must also be sober (calm and collected in spirit) and vigilant (give strict attention to) because the enemy is searching for the one that he can destroy. We serve a great, big God who has all power and authority.

When we break down the scripture, we can find practical ways to apply it to our lives, one small step at a time. Today, we can choose to recognize our need for God, give Him our worries and anxieties, and be watchful.

Prayer: God, I am thankful for Your word today that is alive and is a weapon that You have given us. I recognize that this fight is not against flesh and blood, but the forces of darkness and evil. I know that I need so much more of You in my life. I give You my worries, fears and doubts today. Give me eyes that are watchful and able to discern and help me to find calm in You.