1 Peter 5:8 (NKJV) 8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.
Most of us are familiar with this verse. It is often used to teach us about who our enemy (the devil) is and how he operates.
But it also teaches us how we should act if we hope to successfully counter his actions.
What does it say?
It says we are to be sober and vigilant.
Most uses of the word, “sober”, refer to not being under the influence of alcohol.
Although not being drunk or under the influence of alcohol is a good thing, in this case being sober means something a little different.
It actually means to be self-controlled, self-disciplined; not foolish or flippant with our actions.
Then, it instructs us to be vigilant. This is a particularly important word for us to remember.
To be vigilant means to be watchful, attentive, observant, alert, on guard, wide awake.
When we are in a state of vigilance, it is hard for anyone to sneak things by us.
We see everything. We discern everything. We are ready for whatever comes at us.
Conversely, many people fall into complacency.
Being complacent is the opposite of being vigilant. When we are complacent, we are lax, laid back, too relaxed.
Sometimes this is due to feeling like nothing can touch us. Other times it is simply that we don’t want to expend the energy or take the time to do what we should do. We just don’t think it is important enough to warrant our time and energy.
And that complacency will get us into trouble every time.
So, let us follow God’s word and be the sober, vigilant people He has called us to be. Let us not drop our guard or become lax in defending against the onslaught of the enemy.
Amen
Pastor Curt & Pastor Ellie
Seven Seas Ministries
49 N Lamplighters Walk
Hampstead, NC 28443
401-439-3780
If you know someone who will enjoy this or be encouraged by it, please feel free to share it with them!
To have the Bible Verse of The Day delivered to your inbox each day, please Click Here and then enter your email address in the box near the upper left corner of the page.
Please consider making a Donation.
Get our mobile app here:
Android: http://goo.gl/oQ6qa7
Apple: http://apple.co/2lZdgYy