LOOKING FOR SOMEONE TO DEVOUR.” By Daniel Vun.
1Peter 5:8-9 “Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.”
On the wild life television channels, you can often see footage of how the lion hunts its prey. The lions usually hide and wait near the watering holes, such as small ponds or lakes. They know that the severe African midday sun will drive the herds to search for water. The gazelles will usually travel in the herds to the water holes to quench their thirst. But they are always alert for any signs of danger. The lions would slowly stalk the herd until they are close enough to pounce. At the sight of the fearsome cats, the herd would scatter in all directions fleeing for their lives. But there is usually a weak gazelle, may be a small calf, or an elderly, sick gazelle that cannot run fast enough. These will be easy targets for the lion. In a few seconds, the weak gazelle is caught and killed with brutal efficiency.
In our spiritual life we must always be watchful and alert. The devil is hunting for the weaker members, hoping to catch them when they least expect it.
Matthew 26:41 says, “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak.” The disciples were unaware of the attack that was to befall them. They were too exhausted to pray. But Jesus prepared himself and was strengthened through His prayers. Thus He was able to face the devil’s attacks.
Through our prayers God will guide us and strengthen us, so that we can resist the devil’s assault. The closer we draw near to God, the more that we can feel His protection. So let us always be watchful and pray.
Reflection
What does the devil use to tempt us?
What are some examples of the devil’s attacks?
How you dealt with the devil’s attacks?