STAND FIRM IN THE FAITH

“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 your brothers throughout the world

are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.”

1 Peter 5:8-9 (NIV)

nēphō³⁵²⁵ – to abstain from wine (keep sober), i.e. (fig.) be discreet: - be sober, watch.

grēgŏrĕuō¹¹²⁷ – to keep awake, i.e. watch (lit. or fig.): - be vigilant, wake, (be) watch (-ful).

anthistēmi⁴³⁶ – to stand against, i.e. oppose: - resist, withstand.

That last Greek word reminds me of antihistamine, the stuff that blocks those things that make me sneeze. We need to use these three skills – staying sober, being vigilant, and resisting Satan – to block those things that make us sin. We’re not alone in the fight. Our brothers and sisters around the world suffer persecutions, trials, and temptations. The key here is to stand firm in our faith, knowing that nothing “can separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:39b).

           

Father, you enable us to do what you have commanded. Help me to resist Satan and stand firm in the faith to your glory. Thank you for your unfailing love!