1 Peter 5:8-9

Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.

Those of us who have lived long at all know the truth of this verse. As long as he is allowed, the mission of the enemy is to destroy lives, especially those who claim Christ as their Savior. Being alert to his schemes and self-controlled in our thoughts and actions is the only way to come through this life victorious against him.

We are seeing also, in this day and time, how believers around the world are suffering at his hand. It’s hard to watch and yet makes me rejoice at the faithfulness of our brothers in Christ despite their circumstances. I could only hope I would stand firm and resist the temptation to give up and give in, were I under the same persecution.

No doubt, we realize the enemy is looking to devour our prodigals. Pray for protection, but even more for the prodigal to stand firm in their faith, be alert and live with self-control where their greatest temptations are concerned.

1 Peter 5:8-9

Be self-controlled and alert ________. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, ________, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.