“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith” (1 Peter 5:7-8).
“I’m really ashamed of the way I allowed myself to make some very bad choices,” thirty-seven-year-old Peter said as he stood before the senior high and college group. “I made a decision for Christ as a child, and to be honest, I really grew and loved the Lord, His Word and all the church activities with my friends. I always wanted to be a teacher and, in fact, graduated with my bachelor’s degree. I was so thrilled when I landed a teaching position. But folks, I started becoming careless, and while I’m not blaming him, I certainly can see how the devil seemed to orchestrate plenty of opportunities for me to sin. I resisted none of them, and to my horror I was arrested for crimes that cost me my teaching career. I served my prison time and know that the Lord has forgiven me, but I will never teach again. I’m here as a living testimony to remind you that you have an enemy. He hates you and hates your Lord. He’s like a roaring lion who wants to devour you.” Peter went on to teach a great lesson full of practical advice. He closed with, “Your enemy wants to ruin your life. Stay close to the Lord and in His Word. Resist his sinful suggestions. You’ll be glad that you did.”
For today: It was a powerful time that night in youth group. How will Peter’s message affect you today?