The Apostle Peter cautioned us to be sober and vigilant at all times. The word sober means: be well balanced and self-disciplined. The word vigilant means: be alert and cautious at all times. Peter knew that we are in a spiritual battle. However, we are not alone in this battle. Our brothers and sisters in the faith likewise are also in a similar battle. 1 Peter 5:8-9 says: “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.” Peter reminded us of the power of our faith. We have the authority to resist the adversary, the devil. We are to resist him stedfastly in the faith. When we do that, he must flee. The word “steadfast” means: “immovable, firmly fixed in place”. Our faith is wrapped around THE ROCK, who is the Lord Jesus. This is why we can remain steadfast! James 4:7 says: “Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you”. So be reminded today that greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world!
This is the atmosphere that produces life!
The most powerful environment for us is God’s Presence. It is our life, security, stronghold, joy and peace. In the same way a fish needs water to live and thrive, we need God’s Presence to live and thrive in this world. Psalm 31:20 says: “You shall hide them in the secret place of Your presence From the plots of man; You shall keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues”. God’s Presence effectively hides us from the enemy’s attacks. This verse does not deny that evil men will attempt to plot our destruction. It does not deny that tongues will attempt to foment strife against us. But it does say that God will hide us in the secret place of His Presence. The enemy cannot enter that atmosphere. James 4:7 confirms that when we submit to God, we can successfully resist the devil and he will flee from us. Cultivate God’s Presence every day in times of worship, praise, prayer and meditating in His word! This is part of your mighty weapons of warfare!
