Friday, July 25, 2008

Are Christians still being eaten by lions?

1Pe 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:

When hunting favored prey such as wildebeest or zebra, lions usually stalk to within 30 meters before rushing at them. In most cases the lions will wait until the quarry has turned away or has its head down. Once it detects danger, the victim bolts but it may be too late. On rare occasions, (and invariably in daylight) lion may ambush prey, with one member of the pride lying in wait as its partner forces the quarry to run in its direction. The sheer abundance of prey can also determine hunting strategies. When great herds of migratory wildebeest are milling about, lions can simply rush into them and pull down one or more of the confused animals. When the same herds gather to cross the Grumeti or Mara rivers, lions simply wait at favored crossing points and pick off the startled wildebeest.

http://www.wildwatch.com/living_library/mammals-2/big-cat-hunting-strategies

It is also widely known that lions will prey on the young, the invalid, the older and weaker prey. It is little wonder why Peter uses this very visual analogy as to how a Christian should walk in this world of lions.

First of all, Peter tells us to be “SOBER”. Literally to be serious and calm, not taking our responsibilities lightly or frivolously in our Christian walk.

Second; we are to be “VIGILANT”. Aware of our surroundings, environment, and influences, Once we turn our heads and become comfortable with our situation we put ourselves in the position to become a victim.

Peter tells us WHY we need to be : SOBER and VIGILANT. Because our adversary,(enemy) known as the devil, is on the prowl. He is looking for the weak, the invalid the immature Christian to devour, literally to consume their testimony and service life. There fore as part of our defense we are to stay strong in our faith. Aware of the fact that we are in the world but not OF the world. We also have a protector in Jesus Christ our Shepard, and the Holy Spirit our Comforter to walk hand in hand with us through this world. Also, notice there is strength in numbers. “Forsake not the assembly of yourselves together,:

The devil knows our favorite hang outs and is waiting in ambush. Put the Holy Spirit out on point to ensure safe travel. Don’t become the next to have your Christian testimony devoured.

1 comment:

Jeff said...

Good points! Also, I would add it is often suprising what the enemy looks like when it comes after us. It can be something our flesh finds appealing or our minds justify like gossip. . .