"Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings." -1 Peter 5:8-9 (NIV)
Watch any of the famous Rocky movies and you’ll find a prime example of someone who never gave up in battle. With every movie, Sylvester Stallone’s character, Rocky Balboa, faced an even bigger challenge. Yet through each 12-round beating, he always managed to get back up on his feet and find victory.
The first line of the FCA Competitor’s Creed states: “I am a Christian first and last.” As Christians we are faced with a battle that rages all around us. Our souls are up for grabs. God has them, but Satan wants them. And if he can’t take us with him, he’ll make our lives here on Earth the toughest war we’ll ever fight. We carry a large target on our backs as believers in Christ. For Satan, there’s a higher price on our lives because we work for the Kingdom. The more we grow in Christ and the more people come to know Christ through us, the more Satan loses.
The Competitor’s Creed states: “I give my all—all of the time. I do not give up. I do not give in. I do not give out. I am the Lord’s warrior—a competitor by conviction and a disciple of determination.” A lifetime of war isn’t going to be easy. But if we draw on God’s grace and God’s power, we too can keep getting up round after round.
1. What are the weak links in your armor where Satan attacks you the most?
2. What can you do to strengthen your weak links?
3. Do you draw on God’s grace and power each day to fight your spiritual battles?
Extra Reading: Proverbs 4:14-15; Colossians 3:1-5; James 4:7
Lord, I know the battle ahead of me isn’t going to be easy. Help me to rely on You alone for the strength and wisdom I need. Let me never stop praying for mercy and guidance, and help me to resist temptation. And, Father, please bless me with fellow brothers and sisters who can help me along the way. Amen.