January 24 - Seeking To Devour.

1 Peter 5:8
“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.”
 
The moment we are fully persuaded that the Lord is Able to meet our need, the devil takes notice of our faith.
 
Like a bullseye on our backs, he is after us with the intent to devour us any way he can. 
Target is more than just a controversial shopping place. 
 
We must be sober and vigilant.
1 Peter 1:13
“Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;”
 
If we are not calm and collected in our spirit, we will not be aware of when the fiery darts of the wicked are being thrown at us. 
 
We must resist him with purpose.
Ephesians 6:11-12
“Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.”
 
There is no excuse for attempting to stand defenseless against him when we have been given specific instructions and equipment at our disposal. 
 
Failing to place the armour of God upon our lives will only lead to heartache and defeat. 
 
Ephesians 6:13
“Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.”
 
It is not our responsibility to defend ourselves when the Lord is willing and able to fight for us.
 
Exodus 14:14
“The LORD shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace.”
 
When we try to fight for ourselves, we surrender the perfect peace that only He supplies.
 
Isaiah 26:3
“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.”
 
 
Bible Reading:
Genesis 47-48    |     Matthew 3