1 Peter 5:8-9 NIV
[8] Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. [9] Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.
A few things come to mind as you read the verses above. I have to recognise the fact that this earthly phase is warfare. The world makes no pretence that it will just hand over all that you ask for without first making a demand from you. Even God, in His Word, has made it clear that in this world, you will have tribulation. This understanding helps my preparation and defines my expectations. I know now what is ahead, and I have been given sufficient information about how to prepare the right way. I cannot turn around and claim ignorance; today's verses are another reminder of what is coming, and how best to prepare. The verse admonishes me to both be alert and of sober mind. There is an awareness of both my environment and my inner state. I do not just focus on the signs of the end times, but I am also watching my life and its pursuits and priorities closely, so that at no time do I lose sight of what is eternally relevant.
It is also unforgivable and deliberate ignorance to think that there is no enemy, or that the devil does not exist. Events around the world today make it clear that evil exists and is in place. The devil's assignment since his fall from heaven has been to steal, kill and destroy, and anyone under his control and influence is subject to this assignment. How can anyone fight the devil, who has been at his diabolical work since creation, and defeat him without the help of the One who is called the Omnipotent God? How can mortal man dare face up to the devil, unless God helps such a man? That is why resisting the devil can only be done by standing firm in the faith. There is no other provision made by God for the safety, security, protection and victory for His children, except they remain standing in the faith, which means being in Christ, and totally dependent on His grace. How are you standing? Where are you standing?
It is also noted that whatever may come my way is not peculiar to me alone, but I share a common experience with all who are of the same faith with me. This faith will be tried and tested in many ways, and the end may not always be as we want it be. However, I have a Father who tells me what to expect, and how to prepare the right This is important to know, so I do not feel abandoned, or think that God has left me to my devices. He will never leave not forsake me, which is His standing promise to all who have come to put their trust in Him. I belong to a family of believers, who know the blood of Jesus is sufficient for all their cares and worries, and whose sins have been forgiven. This is the clear experience I have to be sure about. I must boy be content with another person's story, but I have to get my own. This faith will be tested but the assurance and confidence to face the tests comes from the sure Word of God that He is with me at all times. Do not dare face the world without His help. You will not survive. God's time of favour is here.
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