4/02/25 The External Attack
- Fr. Patrick Bush
- Apr 2
- 2 min read
Takeaway: Stay alert, stand firm in faith, and trust that Christ has already won.
“Be alert and of sober mind. 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 the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.” — 1 Peter 5:8-9
Opening Prayer
Heavenly Father, as I come into this time of devotion, I open my heart to You. Quiet the distractions around me and help me to focus on Your Word. Strengthen my faith, renew my spirit, and guide my thoughts so that I may draw closer to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Reflection
Life is a battlefield, and as followers of Christ, we are engaged in a spiritual war. Peter warns us that our enemy, or enemies, is actively seeking to weaken, deceive, and destroy us. Like a lion stalking its prey, our enemy looks for moments of vulnerability—times when we are weary, discouraged, or distracted.
Yet, Peter does not tell us to live in fear; instead, he calls us to be alert and firm in faith. The key to resisting the enemy is not our own strength, but our unwavering trust in God. We stand firm by clinging to His Word, surrounding ourselves with fellow believers, and staying steadfast in prayer. When trials come, we must remember that we are not alone. The struggles we face are not unique—our brothers and sisters in Christ around the world are also standing in faith against the enemy’s attacks.
The enemy may prowl, but he does not have the final victory. Christ has already defeated evil and sin. Our role is to stand firm, resist with faith, and trust that God’s strength will sustain us.
Question
Where do you feel spiritually vulnerable right now?
Application
• Staying Spiritually Alert. Be aware of situations or emotions that make you vulnerable to doubt, temptation, or discouragement. When you recognize these moments, turn to God immediately in prayer.
• Anchoring Yourself in God’s Word. Regularly reading and meditating on Scripture strengthens your ability to resist spiritual attacks.
• Taking Practical Steps to Resist Temptation. Identify areas where you struggle and put safeguards in place. Whether it’s limiting distractions, avoiding negative influences, or seeking godly counsel, take intentional steps to resist the enemy’s schemes.
Closing Prayer
Lord, I know that I am in a spiritual battle, and I need Your strength to stand firm. Help me stay alert, resist the enemy, and trust in Your victory. Strengthen my faith and surround me with Your presence, so that I may stand unshaken. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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