DAD'S RAMBINGS -- RESISTING THE DEVIL

DAD'S RAMBLINGS – RESISTING THE DEVIL

"Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world." (I Peter 5:8-9)

We Americans know nothing about the suffering of persecution. Our brothers, our fellow-believers around the world are suffering right now. The believers to whom Peter wrote understood suffering and persecution. They were a part of the Dispersion of Christians who were driven into various parts of the world – to Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia – because of persecution.

Our adversary, the devil, would love to try to eat us alive. He looks for any opportunity to devour us. We must be vigilant --- keeping a sharp eye out for his attacks. Sometimes it is overt attack, as with persecution. Sometimes it is more subtle. We must resist his efforts to destroy our faith. But in the end, it is love for Jesus that will keep us faithful. Keeping our focus on Jesus is more important than looking around every bush to see if the devil is lurking there, ready to pounce.

In chapter one, Peter noted that they were rejoicing in their faith in Christ, even though, as he wrote, "for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ" (vss 6-7).

Jesus had become so precious to them that they were willing to endure great suffering. What is it that will keep people faithful in times of trials and distress? It is the reality of Jesus Christ in their lives. It is more than religion. It is more than cultural acceptance. It is that deep love for Christ who gave Himself for our Salvation.

In this letter, the word "precious" is used to describe our faith that is more valuable than anything else in this world (1:7), It is the precious blood of Jesus (1:19), and the precious stone – the Lord Jesus Himself (2:4). The preciousness of the Lord Jesus will keep us faithful when Satan attacks. To those who believe, He is precious (2:7).

Love, Dad