Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. – 1 Peter 5:8
An old adage says to keep your friends close but your enemies closer. In battle, this means understanding your enemy well enough that you know what he could be planning so you may be a step ahead of him.
Peter provides a description of the enemy of the Christian in today’s verse – a roaring lion on the prowl, seeking to devour. This enemy is fierce and determined, like a ravenous wild beast. He is restless, ceaseless in his search, “moving to and fro on the earth” (Job 1:7). He is intent, not merely on injuring his prey but devouring them by destroying their faith in God.
Just like David did as he fought and killed the lion and the bear (1 Samuel 17:34-37), you will need to stand strong in the Lord against the devil and his ways. Additionally, today’s verse tells you to “be watchful.” Other translations say, “Be alert,” emphasizing the fact that you must be vigilant and not merely glance every now and then to see if the enemy is bothering you. You must actively be aware, both morally and spiritually, of approaching danger.
Peter exhorts you to “resist him, firm in your faith” (1 Peter 5:9). The Lord is a shield for those who stand in faith and make Him their shelter (Psalm 18:2, 28:7-8, 91:4). Put on the whole armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18). Pray for all who struggle to remain firm in their faith, particularly those who serve in the halls of government. Ask that they would look to the Lord to provide an escape (1 Corinthians 10:13). Be watchful, constantly on your guard. The Lord will give you the strength you need.
Today’s Verse: 1 Peter 5:8
Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: 1 Peter 5:6-11
6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, 7 casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. 8 Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. 9 Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. 10 And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. 11 To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
