A Devil Behind Every Rock

 

Today I was thinking about how persistent the devil is. Don't doubt it for minute - he hates Christians, he especially hates families, and he is out to destroy individuals and families. 

It says in 1 Peter 5:8 "8 Be sober, be vigilant, because your adversary the devil walketh about as a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour."

Be sober. 

A definition of sober is ":  unhurried, calm 4 :  marked by temperance, moderation, or seriousness"

I don't know about you, but some of worst decisions have been made when I was hurried. When I was anxious. 

The best way to keep your head is to be calm and unhurried - sober! And to get there, prayer and meditation on God are good ways to slow your roll. When the situation overwhelms you, be sober. Slow down. It is a serious situation - but it's time to release. Give it to God. Make no big decision without prayer and counsel.

It also says satan is seeking whom he can devour. He goes after the weak, the vulnerable. Arm yourself with the Word! 

Ephesians 6:10-18New Living Translation (NLT)

The Whole Armor of God

10 A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. 12 For we[a]are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.

13 Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. 14 Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness.15 For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared.[b] 16 In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil.[c] 17 Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

18 Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.[d]

I don't want you to think the devil is behind every rock, but by the same token understand you have to take care of yourself.  Ask God to reveal what is going on. You will be amazed! So many times we get so upset at people - but a lot of lost people are led by the nose by satan. They are used to discourage us, trip us up, and keep us down. Once you see it's not the person, but the fact that their lives are not given over to Christ and therefore they can be used as pawns ...well, you are less mad at the person.  It makes it easier to pray for them. 

Don't get me wrong - everyone is responsible for their decisions! When poor decisions and selfishness by the ex directly affects you or your loved ones, it's time to take a breathe. Walk away. Talk to God. Don't take the bait!

I'm proud of each and every one of you- you have come so far. Keep close to God, and keep his Word in your heart. It will protect you from the plans of the enemy!

We are praying for you!