Passage of the Day:
Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 9 Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings. 10 And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast, 1 Peter 5:8-10.
Reflection:
As individuals seek a fresh start in 2024, a few days of eating healthy and working out builds positive momentum. However, as you seek to meet and uphold your New Year’s Resolutions, don’t let your guard down by allowing tempting thoughts to enter your mind. One of Jesus’ disciples compares the Devil to a roaring lion who seeks to prey upon weakened souls. As Christians become tired and weary, you’re at your most vulnerable condition. This is one of the main reasons for Peter’s warning to be alert and sober minded.
Prayerful Action:
Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, 2 but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. 3 That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers, Psalm 1:1-3.
Renewing Your Mind:
Great coaches, leaders, and teachers share similar personality traits. After being passed the torch by Moses to become the new leader of Israel, Joshua sets the spiritual tone in Joshua 1:7-9. Rather than taking a lazy faire approach, Joshua reminds Israel of the connection between obedience to God and success. When Christians let their guards down, a spirit of apathy tends to follow. As Christians proactively pray and prepare their minds against demonic attacks, the better your chances will be to hold firm to faith by withstanding temptation.
Song of the Day:
Final Thoughts:
If you start to expect the unexpected and pray for a hedge of protection, Job 1:10, you’ll spend 2024 alert and sober minded.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 