Read James 4:7. What clear promise is given to the one who stands against the devil? How does one stand against a force so much more powerful than we are, in and of ourselves? See also Deut. 4:4.

Our ability to resist the Devil first beings with our willingness to submit to God. When we submit to God we are afforded the the power that we need to resist. I like the fact that the passage says simply resist the Devil and he will flee. We do not have to fight him we just have to hold fast to God and stand our ground. God promises that He will keep us and help us against our strongest enemy.

Study 1 Peter 5:6-10. What promise is given to the Christian in the face of an enemy who is described as a "roaring lion" seeking someone to devour? How do these texts help us to understand what James wrote above? See also Ephesians 4:27 and 6:11.

From this passage we must understand that the Devils purpose is to take us out. He is not some nice friend that we can trust his mission is that we burn with him in hell. We have to be on our guards and submit to God so that we can have the strength we need to resist his wiles. We must put on our spiritual armor so that we can be fully protected against the enemies tactics and threats. On this earth until Jesus come it will feel like Christians versus the devil, with Christ we have won!

Even with all the promises given here, we are not promised freedom from suffering, are we? What Christian doesn't know the reality of suffering? As humans, we seem destined in this world to suffer. What crucial difference should our faith make for us amid sorrows and pain?

Our faith should be able to sustain us during these difficult times.

Prayer: Lord God Almighty, thank you for your word. Help us to submit to you and resist the Devil. Thank you in Jesus name amen.

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