ALERT TO SATAN’S SCHEMES

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  01/24/23

After checking with those who work with wild animals, I was told that there are three reasons lions roar:

1. Lions roar when strange animals hunt in their territory.
2. Lions sound a roar of triumph after they have captured their prey.
3. Lions roar loudest when caught in a storm. They cannot tolerate the flashing lightning or the clashing thunder.

Peter concludes his first epistle by drawing a word picture of Satan as a lion constantly on the move, prowling around and roaring each time a careless Christian falls victim to his deception.

This is why Peter admonishes us, “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8).

Being alert is the antithesis of being in a drunken stupor. Peter is telling us that sin can numb your spiritual senses to a point where you are no longer spiritually sober. Your reaction time is affected, and you fall victim to Satan’s ploy.

In contrast, a person who is spiritually alert views life according to God’s principles and values. To be spiritually alert means to be aware of approaching danger—of temptation to sin—and having the determination to avoid it.

When it comes to the enemy, be resolutely serious. Don’t be flippant about his intentions. His desire is clear: to destroy your life and witness for Christ. Therefore, stand firm in your faith. Commit yourself to prayer, and you will gain the victory!

Prayer: Lord, please forgive my sin—known and unknown. I pray I will be alert to the enemy and able to avoid his traps. Please grant me wisdom. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“Be alert and of sober mind” (1 Peter 5:8a).