In His Name Devotionals
OUR ADVERSARY THE DEVIL
In His Name Devotionals
OUR ADVERSARY THE DEVIL
“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” (1 Pet. 5:8 NKJV)
An “Adversary” is an avowed enemy. They oppose, contradict, discourage, thwart and belittle everything that does not please them. Satan is a Christian’s adversary. He despises those who serve God and is out to destroy every one of us who is committed to honoring and worshipping God. His power was severely limited after the resurrection.
There are several traits among God’s people Satan especially despises. The New Testament mentions the following in particular.
First, the devil hates boldness and courage. When we as Christians refuse to take a stand, when we compromise, or let ungodly influences of the world cause us to cower and retreat, he jumps for joy. But, let a Christian take a stand on something that is true, right, and good, and watch the devil stir up the opposition! Boldness and courage are hallmarks of a committed Christian after God’s own heart (Prov. 28:1; Rom. 1:16; James 4:7).
Second, the devil hates zeal and enthusiasm. It is so easy to become discouraged and depressed in our Christian walk. When we constantly stay depressed, there is something wrong. Either it is due to sleep loss, constant irritations, an unknown medical problem or un-confessed sin. Satan will even use our fellow sisters and brothers in the Lord (even family) to discourage us by inviting us to follow the ways of the world (Eph. 6:11-16).
Third, the devil hates plans and goals. Satan isn’t concerned with pew-warming brethren who sit in idleness, not being involved in church work, saving souls, thinking of others, or aiming to grow. Why should he? Satan has captured their heart and mind. But, let the church make some plans, start some changes, set some goals, promote God’s work in the world, and then Satan comes out in all his fury. Every time we compromise and draw into a shell of contentment, we have surrendered to “our adversary the Devil” (Isa. 28:20-21; Rom. 2:1).
