When my oldest boys were young they loved to watch Daniel Boone and Davy Crocket reruns. They ran around our wooded ten acres with pretend toy rifles and coon skin hats in search of bear. Bear was a real occurrence in rural New Hampshire where we lived. However the bear never seemed to show up when the boys were hunting, rather unexpectantly, like the time a bear woke me in the middle of night banging against my window pane.
When young David killed his bear he was minding his own business tending sheep. And we too are usually tending to business when we face unwarranted attacks. Sometimes the enemy crosses over into our territory without recognition and suddenly we are attacked on our own turf. He works his wiles to bring unrest where ever he can, seeking an open door of vulnerability into our lives.
Like you, I have been a victim of the enemies’ ploys many times. Whether due to his lose of territory, vehemently lashing out in response to a perceived threat, or in sighting rumors spewed in jealousy, the enemy is on the prowl seeking whom he may destroy.
Peter gives us this warning, “Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. But resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being accomplished by your brethren who are in the world. After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish you. To Him be dominion forever and ever.”(1 Peter 5:8-11 NAS)
Not only does Peter warn us to be alert about the wiles of the enemy, he also reveals the benefit of the trials we suffer. He explains that the Lord uses trials, to perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish us in Christ. Every onslaught of the enemy in my life has truly brought a greater opportunity for growth and strengthening of my resolve in the Lord.
So the next time you stumble upon bear or Lion, remember Peter's admonition to resist the enemy firm in your faith. Another way to say this would be to stand in place, and not be moved. When the enemy strikes, grab your pots and pans like I did, let him know that you will not be intimidated, or surrender your territory. Stand firm allowing the Lord to strengthen you.
