We Have An Enemy

I Peter 5:8-9a,  "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..."

    Ever had one of those days when everything seems to go wrong?  Maybe most of your days are like that.  This happens partially because we live in a fallen world and partially because we are human, with the failings common to all people.  But it also happens partially because we have an enemy who is working night and day to frustrate us, discourage us, frighten us, and try to cause us to take our eyes off Jesus and concentrate on our problems and limitations.  Don't let him succeed!  Never ever forget: I John 4:4b,  "The one who is in you [God's Holy Spirit] is greater than the one who is in the world [our enemy, the devil]."   James 4:7 tells us just how to have victory.  This verse says,  "Submit yourselves, then to God.  [Bring God and all His power into the situation.]  Resist the devil [with God's power] and he will flee from you."

    Remember that God is sovereign over all the circumstances and details of our lives.  He is on His throne!!!  He is in charge!!!  Every event or situation that comes into our lives is first of all strained through the permissive will of a Heavenly Father who loves us and desires what is best for us, and He has promised to cause everything that happens to us to turn out for our good and His glory.

Father, thank You that You never lose us or forget us or neglect us in any way.  Thank You that You are in charge over every detail of our lives, even when it doesn't feel that way to us.  Thank You for the promise of Romans 8:28, that You will cause all things to work together for our good.  May we always trust Your power and Your love.  Amen.