One reason we have cares is because we have an enemy. As the serpent, Satan deceives; as the lion, Satan devours. The word Satan means “adversary,” and the word devil means “the accuser, the slanderer.” The recipients of Peter’s first letter had already experienced the attacks of the slanderer, and now they would meet the lion in their fiery trial. Peter gave them several practical instructions to help them gain victory over their adversary.

Satan is a dangerous enemy. He is a serpent who can bite us when we least expect it. He is destroyer as well as an accuser. He has great power and intelligence, and a host of demons who assist him in his attacks against God’s people. He is formidable; we must never joke about him, ignore him, or underestimate his ability. We must “be sober” and have our minds under control when it comes to Satan’s attacks.

Verse for today: “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7).

Also read: 2 Corinthians 11:13-14; 1 Peter 5:8-9; Revelation 12:9- 11; Zechariah 3:1-5.

Action assignment: Study the different names given to Satan in the Bible, using a good concordance. Through prayer and God’s help, learn to recognize Satan as your dangerous enemy.

Warren W. Wiersbe
www.backtothebible.in