Prepare to Quit AlcoholSample

1Peter 5:8 (NIV): Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.

Mindful Minute: On Day 1, we discussed Romans 12:2 which tells us not to be conformed to this world. God gives us this warning because the world is governed by a real and formidable force of darkness--the prince of the power of the air. This enemy is at work in the world, and his sole purpose is to steal, kill, and destroy (Ephesians 2:2). As believers, we are gratefully secure in our destiny and our salvation will never be at risk. We have been mercifully sealed with the power of the Holy Spirit, and we have been made children of God. In accepting this gift of salvation, we are now warned that in order to keep from falling victim to the strategies of Satan, we must remain sober-minded.

We are told in this verse, that Satan's desire is to "devour". The Greek word for "devour" in the Bible is katapino, meaning to drink, drown, swallow up, or destroy. The enemy’s desire is to block or drown out the light-filled influence we are destined for through the power of the Holy Spirit, a light intended to guide others to Jesus. While our salvation is secure, losing our sober-mindedness can lead to actions that cause others to stray from Christ. With that type of living example, people might say, “If that’s what a Christian is, I want no part of it.” As heartbreaking as this is, it can be true.

But remember, light will always overpower darkness and the great news is that you now have the awareness that there is an enemy at work trying hard to smother your light and influence in the Kingdom. The enemy’s efforts to control your life deserve your full rejection and contempt for this substance, contempt for the lies that come with it, and contempt for the one who is trying to distract you from God’s plan.

Alcohol promises relief from anxiety but only creates more. It claims to offer courage while eroding self-confidence. This thief pretends to deepen connection in relationships, yet it destroys the ones that matter most. The lies are endless. Stay vigilant and practice awareness, recognizing the enemy behind these false promises. With this clarity, you will be prepared to quit and will draw on the strength of the Holy Spirit to resist temptation and stand firm.

Prayer: Father, thank you for reminding me that there is an enemy at work in my life trying to redirect my thoughts and actions away from your love and comfort. I pray for awareness in all that is being stolen from me so that I may persevere in a path that is righteous so that I can exude the joy and peace of the Holy Spirit instead of being oppressed by the lies of the enemy. In Jesus’ mighty name, amen.