The Old Lion

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks 

about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour

(1 Peter 5:8)

It has been noted that only old lions roar when they are hunting food.  Because they are no longer capable of running as fast as they once were, in order to catch their prey, they roar in an effort to frighten it into inactivity, even momentarily, to increase their chances of making the kill.

Old lions are not as powerful, and may not have as many teeth as in their younger days, so while they are still dangerous and frightening, they are much less so.

Satan acts in much the same way.  His tactic is to frighten us, to keep us upset, stressed, and worried, so that our lives are less peaceful and productive.  But Satan cannot hurt us if we stay centered in God’s will and look to Him for guidance and protection.

Although it is true there is always the possibility that our outer (physical) bodies can be injured or destroyed, our inner (spiritual) being, anchored in Christ Jesus, is eternally safe in Him.

Therefore submit to God.  Resist the devil and he will flee from you

(James 4:7)

He’s like a hungry, roaring lion
who strikes our hearts with fear.
Help us, Lord, when we’re afraid,
to know that You are near;
ready with Your powerful hand
to hold him back at bay,
as long as we are trusting You.
to guard us all the way.

Glenda Collins Inman