Taming Temptation: Nothing New Under the “Son!”
Alert

Scripture: 1 Peter 5:6-11

Key Verse: 1 Peter 5:8

Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.

The next word the Apostle Peter uses is “alert.”  We must be alert if we are going to tame the lion of temptation.  Webster defines “alert” with words like: watchful; brisk; active…warning of sudden attack or surprise.  The evil one is continually seeking a moment to pounce on us.  If we are not watchful, we will be surprised by the schemes the devil comes up with.

            To be alert is to stay in an attitude of readiness.  Letting down our guard will seldom go unnoticed by the evil one.  He loves signs of weakness when it comes to our disciplines.  He knows that we can resist him.  He understands he has no real power over us who are in Christ!  The devil’s only hope to “rob and steal” is for us to not stay alert, becoming lax in our preparation for battle.

            What signs are there that we are “being alert” as we walk with God?  First, we start our day with prayer.  When we skip talking to our very source of strength, we weaken our defenses against the temptations that will come.  Use the Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13) as your outline for praying powerful prayers each day.  Second, read your Bible and make some notes about the truths you’ve read.  The Bible describes itself as a sword of truth, and we need a strong sword against the evil one!  These two disciplines will keep us alert and ready for battle!

 “Father, thank you for giving me all I need for life and godliness.  Remind me today to use the weapons you have provided.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”