“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.” – 1 Peter 5:9
Satan is the Christian’s unwearied foe, he is the enemy of all righteousness, and aims at our destruction. He is especially the enemy of our faith–comfort–prosperity–and usefulness.
He is our enemy before God, and he gets access to our hearts; he excites to sin, accuses of sin, and terrifies for sin. We are called upon to resist him, stedfastly believing God’s word, faithfulness and love. Stedfastly believing what Christ is to us, as Satan’s grand opponent.
Is Satan a deadly serpent?–Jesus is the brazen serpent which heals. Is Satan a roaring lion?–Jesus is the lion of the tribe of Judah who prevails. Is Satan an adversary?–Jesus is a Friend. Is Satan a wolf?–Jesus is the good Shepherd. Is Satan a tempter? – Jesus is a Deliverer. Is Satan a deceiver and a liar?–Jesus is the truth. Is Satan an accuser? – Jesus is an Advocate. Is Satan the prince of darkness?–Jesus is the light of life. Is Satan a murderer?–Jesus is the resurrection. Is Satan god of this world?–Jesus is God over all.
Resist the devil in the faith of this. Jesus is all you need.
All power is to our Jesus given;
O’er earth’s rebellious sons He reigns :
He mildly rules the hosts of heaven,
And holds the powers of hell in chains :
Jesus, the woman’s conquering seed,
Shall bruise for us the serpent’s head. —James Smith, 1840
