Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world. 1 Peter 5:8-9
It came like a thief in the night, totally unexpected or unimaginable. It happened on September 11, an odd coincidence since that’s the number (911) that we call for emergencies. We all remember where we were when it happened and stayed glued to the television throughout the day. Planes struck both World Trade Center buildings, hit the Pentagon and a fourth attack was thwarted by passengers on board.
Three weeks later, as the buildings were still smoldering and ash still falling, my wife and I headed to South Manhattan armed with Bible pamphlets which we handed out on the streets, ashes falling on our heads. People reached for what we had, as they were hungry for the Word in a time of crisis. It is amazing how desired the Bible becomes in times of crisis.
Satan attacks in various ways, usually striking like a snake. The adversary is aware of who you are. He knows of your divine heritage and seeks to limit your earthly and heavenly potential by using the three Ds: Deception, Distraction and Discouragement. He infiltrates the world with his lies, and even believers can be deceived. He’s always ready to interject his ideas into our minds and lead us astray by convincing us that there will be no consequences for sin. If we believe his lies and disobey our heavenly Father, we will suffer His loving discipline.
Spiritual warfare is real, and we all will one time(s) or another be one of Satan’s targets. Like the Boy Scout oath we need to be prepared. Spiritual warfare is best confronted with spiritual preparedness, so to be prepared we need to immerse ourselves daily in the Bible, prayer and spiritual fellowship.
Whenever you choose less than God’s best or to forego God’s prescribed plans, you always put yourself in a vulnerable position. Whenever you choose to go your own way and not follow God’s plan with God’s people, you put yourself in a weakened position. When we settle for less than God’s best or His will, we set ourselves up for attack from the enemy. We should put on Jesus and make no provisions for the flesh. Romans 13:14
So, the next time you are confronted by a bully boastful devilish serpentine enemy, call out to God. Pray for the Spirit’s empowerment. Lead in the Spirit. Maybe even ask for some holy anger to drive you on. And when victory is won, give glory to God.
by John Grant
used by permission
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