No. 319 - Stand Firm Against the Enemy

The Armour of God’s Protection

Stand Firm Against the Enemy

1 Peter 5:8-9

"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."

Starting Prayer

Heavenly Father, open my eyes to understand the importance of being vigilant and resisting the enemy. Help me to stand firm in my faith. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Background

Peter's first letter was written to encourage believers who were facing persecution and suffering. In 1 Peter 5:8-9, he warns them about the reality of spiritual warfare and the need to be alert and steadfast in their faith.

Peter emphasises the need for vigilance because the devil is always seeking to devour believers. By remaining sober-minded and vigilant, Christians can resist the enemy and remain strong in their faith. These verses remind us that we are not alone in our struggles; our fellow believers around the world are experiencing similar trials.

Be Encouraged

Being sober and vigilant means being aware of the enemy's schemes and ready to stand against them. Imagine a watchman on duty, always alert and prepared for any threat. In the same way, we must be spiritually watchful, recognising that the devil seeks to weaken our faith through temptation, doubt, and discouragement.

To resist the devil, we must be steadfast in our faith. This involves grounding ourselves in God's Word, prayer, and fellowship with other believers. Think of a tree with deep roots that withstands strong winds. Our faith, deeply rooted in God's truth, enables us to stand firm against the enemy's attacks. When we face trials, remembering that we are part of a global community of believers who are also enduring helps us to stay strong and encouraged.

Application

Consider these verses to further enrich today's message:

- James 4:7  "Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you."

- Ephesians 6:11 "Put on the whole armour of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil."

Invitation

If you have not yet committed your life to Christ, I invite you to visit any nearby Church of Christ. Through faith (Hebrews 11:6), repentance from sin (Acts 2:38; 17:30-31), and baptism for the forgiveness of all past sins to be saved (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38), the Lord will add you to His church. Here, you will continue to learn more about God and put into practice Christ's commandments (Matthew 28:18-20). Reflect on today's message and let the Spirit guide you. Share this message with your loved ones and encourage them to walk in the Spirit as well.

Concluding Prayer

Thank You, Lord, for the insight and guidance from today's message. Help me to be vigilant and steadfast in my faith. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

May the Lord bless your day.

 

Theodore J. Quist

Evangelist

Church of Christ

Abokobi - Accra

Ghana


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