Decline & Resist the Devil's Invitation

February 12, 2023

Today's Prompt: Decline**

The Bible tells us in James 4:7 that the devil will flee from us if we resist him.

So be subject to God. Resist the devil [stand firm against him], and he will flee from you. James 4:7

When it comes to the enemy, politely declining his invitation doesn't work. We must resist. The word resist means to take a complete stand against it. It is holding one's ground, refusing to be moved or pushed back. Enthusiastically withstanding, without giving up or letting go. It was a Greek military term meaning to take a firm stance against an opponent.

Be well balanced (temperate, sober of mind), be vigilant and cautious at all times; for that enemy of yours, the devil, roams around like a lion roaring [in fierce hunger], seeking someone to seize upon and devour.

Withstand him; be firm in faith [against his onset—rooted, established, strong, immovable, and determined], knowing that the same (identical) sufferings are appointed to your brotherhood (the whole body of Christians) throughout the world. 1 Peter 5:8-9

According to the above scripture, we need to be well-balanced to be able to resist his schemes. So what does a well-balanced person look like? Such a person is temperate, exercising moderation and self-restraint. They are sober of mind, one who is mentally and emotionally stable, well-adjusted, sane, and sensible. That is the one who can resist his plots successfully.

For God did not give us a spirit of timidity or cowardice or fear, but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of sound judgment and personal discipline [abilities that result in a calm, well-balanced mind and self-control]. 2 Timothy 1:7 AMPC

The devil uses is circumstances and situations in our lives to throw us off-balance. That is one of his most successful tactics. A loved one's death, a divorce, or experiencing a disaster will disrupt our ability to stay well-balanced. But even a callous comment from someone can have that effect. While we are weak, he throws temptations at us that lead us to be deeper out of balance. We turn thoughts of what happened over and over in our minds. The temptation to worry, fear, retaliate in anger, or act on a number of other sins becomes almost beyond our ability to resist.

That is why we need to be vigilant and cautious. We must be aware when we are out of balance and proceed carefully during those times. That is when you need to run to Jesus. Let him comfort and protect you until you get your balance back.

The name of the LORD is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe. Proverbs 18:10 NIV

What do you do to decline the devil's invitation?

**This post is part of the #write28days Challenge, writing and posting EVERY DAY in February