“Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.” – 1 Peter 5:9
The devil is actively prowling around, looking for opportunities to take down followers of Jesus. The previous verse compares him to a roaring lion prowling around a herd of animals, looking for one who is spiritually weak, sick, or isolated to attack. Even if he can’t take their soul, he wants to ruin their faith, their obedience to Christ, and their impact for God’s Kingdom. Recognize that the devil is real and he’s serious. He hates Christians. He isn’t a cartoon character with horns and a pitchfork. He’s a genuine threat to your spiritual life and health!
Recognize that and resist him. The devil isn’t to be dismissed but he also isn’t to be surrendered to. He is to be resisted firmly and steadfastly throughout your life. The Holy Spirit Who lives in you and seals you as God’s child is stronger than the devil. But you must walk in the Spirit to experience His full power. You must reject and repent of sin in your life, draw near to God, and keep growing in your imitation of, and obedience to, Jesus.
The devil’s attacks on you, your mind, your mood, and your family aren’t unique. What he’s doing to you, he’s also doing to plenty of other Christians around the world. Take comfort in this. There are others who have gone through, or are are going through, the same tests, trials, and attacks you are. They too are resisting in the power of the Holy Spirit. Don’t let the thought of the devil overwhelm you (his power is much less than what’s available to you) but don’t ignore him either. Be firm in your faith and resist the temptations, trials, and attacks of the devil. #FollowJesus