A Roaring Lion

 1 Peter 5:8-11 Joyce and I had the privilege of visiting missionary friends in Africa a few years back. While there we visited a large undeveloped game reserve and saw two lions in the wild.  To say they are the king of the jungle is probably not an understatement.  Although there are actually other equally dangerous animals, the lion displays no fear as he lies in wait for prey.

Today's passage urges us to be sober minded and alert because Satan prowls about like a roaring lion,  seeking whom he may devour.  Our African guide was fearful of even having the window of the vehicle open in the lion's presence. His unpredictable nature and quick movements spelled imminent danger.

Amos 3:4 indicates the roar of a lion indicates he has caught his prey. If that is the case then, heightened awareness, a clear mind that has not been intoxicated by what it is fed is of absolute importance. Recognizing Satan's appetite to deceive is important. Because the lions we saw were laying down did not lesson the danger.

Unlike a real lion we can and are called to resist Satan. Our ability to resist him is found in how firm we are in our faith. A firm faith is the result of exercising our minds by learning the truth of scripture, in a manner similar to that of an athlete's continuous exercise of his or her body. If we compared God to a coach, He has an interest in us winning the race and so stays with us to ensure we recover when we stumble and are able to successfully continue (restore, confirm, strengthen, establish). Remember Satan is only 'like a roaring lion.' He presents himself very well but he is not the real source of power nor does he want to you to win.  God is the one who has all power. We only win with him.