“Be Sober, Be Vigilant” 1 Peter 5:8
As we look at our society, especially as the election is coming up, we can see deceit all around us. I hear so many say they don’t know who to believe. There are those who are trying to confuse our young people into not knowing who or whose they are. We see videos of famous people who then take off the mask and it was just a prop. We know that AI easily deceives us, and I recently saw a commercial that gave this warning, as they too revealed they weren’t who they appeared to be for most of the commercial, as they warned that false information may be given prior to the election about voting locations being shut down, for example. Identities can be stolen fairly easily, it seems. Who do we trust?
The Bible says in John 8:44 that the devil “is a liar, and the father of it.” Titus 1:2 says that God “cannot lie.” 1 Peter 5:8 says, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.” We are the prey, and the devil is the hunter. Revelation 12:9 says, “And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world…”
We need to keep our minds clear so we can critically think. “Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.” What better way for the devil to deceive us than to impair our minds? There are many physical reasons why alcohol as a beverage and abusive, addictive drugs and habits such as pornography hurt us, but many don’t realize there is a spiritual curse that is put upon us if we partake. These are doorways that give Satan legal ground into your life. Not only that, but did you know the Bible says in Habakkuk 2:15, “Woe unto him that giveth his neighbour drink, that puttest thy bottle to him, and makest him drunken also”? If you are selling it in your stores or restaurants, you are guilty and a woe is upon you by the LORD!
We do not need alcohol or abusive drugs to relax or have a good time. There are plenty of other comfort foods and drinks that do not put a curse upon your life, that do not impair your mind or make you an easy prey for the devil. Understanding how he works helps us to not be manipulated or deceived. Stand strong! See your healthcare provider, pastor, rehab center, or a trusted friend for help. Pray to the Lord for help and strength as He will give it if you repent and come humbly before Him. Let’s work hard to be a community that spends our money on things that promote health and safety, not wickedness, deceit, and trouble. Trust me: Satan does not have your best interest at heart. God does.
