1 Peter: Week 16 (Wednesday 1st September 2021)
(from www.insightforliving.org.uk)
Chapter 5:8-11
The Heart Of The Matter
A great deal of information about our adversary, the Devil, is being communicated these days. Much of it is erroneous, some of it is “spooky” and superstitious, and a little of it is reliable. Few subjects arouse the public’s curiosity more than this one, which creates an atmosphere of gullibility. Nothing could please the enemy of our souls more! Without question, his presence and strategy, purpose and destiny are clouded by so much misinformation that he operates without much resistance at all. God never intended for His people to live in ignorance or fear of Satan . . . yet many do. This explains why we are so grateful for passages such as this one, where the aging apostle Peter wrote words of truth for all to read. Because they have to do with our age-old adversary, the Devil, we would do well to hear and heed the counsel.
Discovering The Way
1. A Quick Review of 1 Peter 5
1 Peter 5 is a chapter of commands and wise advice, as Peter sought to direct Christians in godly living.
2. Sober Instructions on Battle Tactics (1 Peter 5:8 –11)
As we seek to understand Satan, we must realize that every fiber of his being is bent on defaming and defeating us. Our response should be to keep on the lookout for the predator. And we should expect our resistance to Satan to be both painful and rewarding.
Starting Your Journey
Two practical reminders are worth keeping in mind. First, never confuse confidence in Christ with cockiness in the flesh. Second, always remember that suffering is temporal, and its rewards are eternal.