Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. But resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being accomplished by your brethren who are in the world. (1 Peter 5:8-9)
This scripture indicates an assertive stance against the enemy when it says resist him. Because of the devil’s aggressive hostility, we must be spiritually alert, not only to withstand his attacks but also oppose him through spiritual warfare. We can not idly stand by and expect great victory spiritually if we are not resisting the devil when he comes roaring as a lion in our lives. We can not expect all God has for us if we don’t know God’s word. Many battles in life become much more intense after deliverence from demonic bondage. Why ? The devil wants people back. He has invested so much in the destruction of God’s people and now He sees what Jesus is doing in lives that are set free.
We must be aware of the wiles of the devil and we must be sober and vigilant because our adversary, the devil walks about like a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour. The only way he can devour us is if we let him. Fear not and stand up to the enemy through the Blood of Jesus and His word! You are more than a conqueror!
So many people today are seeking for the power in the Lord when in truth they need to know the authority they have in Jesus first. With authority comes power. Whatever you are walking through at this time of your life, know that before coronation comes crucifixion. In order to truly live, we must first truly die to our flesh.The trials and heartaches of today are the foundation for miracles and promotion of tomorrow. God is in control. What we need to do is seek Him, obey Him, love Him, submit to Him and resist the devil.
Keep in mind that when we resist the devil that he must flee, however, there is no time attached to that. There are instances when he will flee immediately and there are times when he flees in what seems to be an elongated period. What we are sure of is that he must run in terror. God is ultimately in control. Many times God uses Satan to buffet and polish us into what we are meant to be. Through that process do not lose heart for the will of God is being perfected in you and through you. Praise be to God who always causes us to triumph! Keep praying, loving, believing, hoping and resisting the enemy! Your victory is nearer than you think!
Pastor Michael Cannatello
lazarusministry.com
