Read 1 Peter 5:8-9
Discover
1. How is the devil described?
2. What action words do you see in these verses, especially when it comes to our response?
3. What words of encouragement do you see in these verses?
Respond
The original readers of 1 Peter were suffering in many different ways for their faith. Peter used this opportunity to remind them that a big reason for their suffering was their great enemy, the devil. The enemy’s tactics could be intimidating, but Peter wanted these early Christians to remember they weren’t alone.
The same is true for us today. We face a great enemy who uses suffering to accuse, distract, confuse, and remove us from the flock. But he’s a counterfeit lion who doesn’t stand a chance against the Lion of Judah. This means we should see the devil and take him seriously, but we should also stand firm, knowing that nothing can take us from the mighty hand of God.
How do you typically view the devil? Do you view him from either extreme of complete fear or carelessness? Take a minute now to thank God for reminding you of the enemy’s tactics and your ultimate position as a child of God. Commit to staying alert while also standing firm in the power of the Holy Spirit.
Want to go deeper? Watch this commentary from John Piper for a deeper look at what it means to stay alert as described in today’s verses.
*TPCC does not necessarily endorse all “Want to go deeper” sources. They are simply meant to be a helpful tool.