Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. – 1 Peter 5:8
There is a common picture I paint for my three boys and it goes something like this…
You are a courageous warrior and have been equipped with the most epic armor in the universe. The Armor of God (Ephesians 6:13)! The enemy is going to tempt you to be disobedient and he will whisper lies to get you to doubt God’s goodness. When he does, I want you to fasten on the belt of truth. Snap! Draw up your super awesome Jedi sword of the Spirit! Whoosh! And I want you to stab, jab, and slice the enemy down! God promises Satan won’t just cower, but he’ll run away (James 4:7)! Arrrggghhh! More often than not, it is a performance that ends with an epic battle of little hands and feet tackling mommy in the kitchen, but it gets the point across. The best way to combat error is with Truth! Strike. The. Enemy. Down.
Are there any lies the enemy is causing you to believe? Are you doubting God’s goodness in the midst of this pandemic? 1 Peter 5:8 instructs us to be on guard and recognize these lies are not from your Heavenly Father because He is the God of Truth and does not lie (Titus 1:2).
So, are you ready for an assault of Truth? Here it is.
Are you doubting God’s unwavering love to preserve and keep you? God is Faithful! Dwell on the One who is not only your Creator, but also your Sustainer. He is able to keep you from giving way through trials and afflictions. You can rejoice in your suffering (1 Peter 4:12-13) when you entrust yourself to our most Faithful Creator. “Therefore let those who suffer according to God’s will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good” (1 Peter 4:19).
Are you lonely, fearful, or downcast? God is Present! Dwell on the One who is near. “The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18).
Are you feeling as if your life and environment are out of control? God is Sovereign! Dwell on the One who is in control. Not only does He uphold the universe by the word of his power (Hebrews 1:3), but He upholds you with His righteous right hand. “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10).
I could keep going. Instead, let me challenge you this week to open your Bible and pick at least one truth about God. Dwell on it and ask the LORD to write it on your heart. When your feelings begin to override fact (Scripture), recite this Truth over and over. Unsheathe your sword of the Spirit and strike the enemy down with the power of God’s Word (Hebrews 4:12)!
To quote a well-beloved hymn, “Stand up! Stand up for Jesus! Stand in His strength alone; The arm of flesh will fail you; Ye dare not trust your own. Put on the Gospel armor, And, watching unto prayer, Where duty calls, or danger, Be never wanting there.”
Lord, may we never be found wanting in our struggle against the enemy. Embolden us to become women who are prayerful, watchful, and actively advancing in our faith. Amen.