BE STRONG, BUT NOT OVERCONFIDENT

BIBLE PASSAGE:
“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls
around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”
(1 Peter 5:8)

MEDITATION:
The scriptures give us a good description of Satan.
He is hiding in the shadows ready to pounce suddenly
on those who feel there is no need to fear him.
We should never underestimate his power.

Satan is an enemy we need to respect in the same way
an electrician has respect for wires that carry deadly voltage.
The electrician knows where the insulation is
and he knows how to handle electricity.
But, if he ever loses respect for its power,
he can find himself in serious trouble.

Think about the documentaries you’ve seen about wild life in Africa
There are often scenes where the zebras are playing in the open spaces,
but in the heat of the day they get closer to the bushes and trees.
Then suddenly a stalking lion pounces on an unsuspecting zebra,
and all the other zebras scatter back to the open spaces.

But then something interesting happens.
All the other zebras start gravitating back toward the bush and trees.
And when they do, it isn’t long until another zebra falls prey to the lion.
It’s as if they realize danger is near when a lion attacks,
but before long they appear to think everything is safe.
They lose respect for the danger they have witnessed.

ACTION:
Everything may be going great for you right now.
You’ve got money in the bank, a good job, and good health.
But, there is a lion lurking in the shadows that is deadly
and ready to pounce on you as soon as you let down your guard.

The scriptures warn us about letting down our guard.
So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!
(1 Corinthians 10:12)
It sounds like we are being advised
not to feel arrogant or conceited about our status as a Christian.
Satan doesn’t pursue the unsaved because they belong to him already.
Instead, he is after those who belong to the Lord,
because if he can bring them down, others are likely to fall as well.

Pray,
“Heavenly Father, thank You for Your gift of salvation. I pray that
I will not get overconfident with the idea that I can defend myself
against the attacks from Satan in my own strength. I understand why
You want me to be dependent on You and not independent, which
indicates I don’t need You. You are my rock, my fortress and my
deliverer in Whom I take refuge. You are my shield, my stronghold,
and the horn of my salvation. Help me to never lose sight of my need
for You and the Holy Spirit You have sent as my advocate.”

blog: UTVOLWOODY.WORDPRESS.COM