Resisting Satan

MORNING

Read 1 Peter 5:8-11

Devotion

Finishing the race is tough because we are up against some powerful opposition. The spiritual being behind all this opposition is Satan himself. He knows our flaws and will attack when we are at our weakest. Sometimes he flexes his muscles and looks like a roaring lion (5:8), trying to make us afraid. At other times, he masquerades as an angel of light (2 Cor. 11:14), pretending that he wants what is best for us.

But don’t be fooled, Satan’s agenda is clear. He wants to rip you off, make you suffer and stop you from being a disciple of Jesus. He is constantly prowling around, looking to destroy your faith. I don’t want to make you paranoid. Not every problem we face comes directly from Satan’s hand. But he is active, and you are a big target if you are an everyday disciple of Jesus.

So, you have to RESIST him (5:9). Don’t listen to his lies. Don’t believe his promises. Don’t fear his power. Call him out. Tell him that you belong to Jesus. And you will find that for all his bravado, he’s actually a toothless tiger. He’s already been defeated. The real power lies with Jesus (5:11), and each time you resist Satan, you grow stronger (5:10) and he grows weaker.

Prayer

I’m no match for Satan by myself Lord. He’s too smart, seductive, strong and skilled. But I know that he is powerless against You. You have already shown that with Your resurrection. Satan had no strength to keep You dead and buried. He crumbled before You. Please open my eyes to Satan’s lies. Fill my resistance with Your resurrection power today. Make me strong, firm and steadfast, so that I finish my race well.

Today’s Bible Focus

“Resist the devil, standing firm in the faith.”

LUNCHTIME (or when you can make a moment during the day)

1. Meditate for a short time on today’s Bible Focus. Let it seep into your heart.

2. Look and see what is happening around you from God’s perspective and listen to see whether God is whispering anything to you.

3. Pray for any not-yet Christians God has placed on your heart.

EVENING

1. Remember: Repeat today’s Bible Focus.

2. Reflect: Reflect on the day and thank God for what He has said and done.

3. Repent: Check where you have neglected or disobeyed God during the day and ask for forgiveness and freedom.

4. Release: Name any concerns or fears on your mind and release them to Jesus.