1 Peter 5:8 is a warning to believers to keep us from complacency. The first two statements of today’s verse warn us to have clarity of mind and to stay alert. The second sentence explains why vigilance is needed. In Ephesians 6, Paul gives a similar warning when he states that our struggle is not against flesh and blood but spiritual forces.

The goal is not to invoke fear so much as to encourage us to be diligent in prayer, study, and daily renewal so we are prepared for any attempts by the enemy to distract or discourage us. God is faithful to protect us from these attempts, but our role is to practice good spiritual hygiene in a daily basis so we can discern spiritual attacks when they come.

Not every bad thing is an attack. Sometimes things just happen, but our ability to navigate the situation depends heavily on our relationship with the Lord. Darkness sometimes enters quickly, but is overcome by the light of the Holy Spirit that will get us through even the most painful moments. He will comfort us as we grieve, guard us when darkness comes, and give us hope when it seems all is lost.

The Spirit doesn’t necessarily remove the pain, but He will help us navigate through it. The enemy is rendered helpless when we stay vigilant and seek the Lord’s presence.

FaithInTheFog #traumarecovery #dailyinspiration #BeWatchful