4 - LORD'S PRAYER - the Servant's PetitionsSample

13 – Being Resistant

To face evil, Scripture teaches us that we can ask God for help, or we can flee from temptation. But there is still a third way to stand firm when the fight is unavoidable: resistance.

This is the third method—using the ability our Father gives us: the will to fight against evil.

“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” (James 4:7, NIV)

God commands His children to be courageous and to push back against evil, with the confidence that He will deliver them. Yet too often, instead of resisting, we surrender the battlefield without a struggle and drift into sin. This happened in the past—and it still happens today.

As I read James 4, I realize I must take certain steps: draw near to God, keep my hands clean and my heart pure, and live in humility and submission before Him. Only then will I be able to resist evil, because it comes at me with such skill and persistence.

And I am not alone in this.

“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” (2 Timothy 1:7, NIV)

If I know from Scripture what is right and fitting for my life, then I must have the courage to stand firm, to take up the weapons God has provided, and to claim victory.

“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” (Ephesians 6:10–11, NIV)