One House : 1 PeterSample

Resist the Devil

Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.

1 Peter 5:8–9 ESV

Peter continues a list of instructions to Christians as he prepares to finish this letter. How should believers live, considering the existence of a real devil—a spiritual enemy wanting Christians to fall? Peter says, “Be sober-minded” and “be watchful”. This is the third time in the letter where Peter has encouraged his readers to maintain clarity of thought.

It is essential to remain attentive and approach both our personal circumstances and the events happening in our world with thoughtful consideration. Peter writes that there is a danger beyond the physical persecution that some of his readers were facing. He assures his readers that they are not facing these challenges alone and gives direct guidance: Stand "firm in your faith.” For believers, it is reassuring to recognize the sense of solidarity and support available. This highlights the importance of being part of the church! We are a community, a body of believers, where people can connect and be encouraged by the Holy Spirit and by each other. What a comfort.