SUBMIT TO GOD – RESIST THE DEVIL

12/6/2021

DECEMBER 6 - START YOUR DAY RIGHT DEVOTION

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

SUBMIT TO GOD - RESIST THE DEVIL

In their determination to gain victor in spiritual battles against evil, many Christians tend to focus on the last part of this verse about resisting the devil. By sheer determination, they may try to resist Satan’s schemes, accusations, and temptations; and for a brief time, they may experience what seems like success. But, in the end, they are often left with a sense of frustration, discouragement and defeat as they finally give in to Satan’s relentless pressure to yield to sin. In this situation, the problem usually stems from two things:

Overlooking the first and most important aspect of this verse – “Submit yourselves, then, to God” – which must be the primary aspect of a spiritual victory strategy and
Trying to resist Satan in our own efforts, which is actually a consequence of not first submitting to God.

The key to spiritual victory is complete submission to God rather than depending on your own resistance to the devil. This involves

Letting go of any sin you may be hiding in your heart.
Praying for God’s help, strength, and guidance.
Giving up and habits or activities that may give sin a temptation an entrance into your life or that may be hindering your spiritual progress.
Surrendering your own preconceived ideas and strategies on how to overcome sin or Satan and relying on God’s strategies, which He will show you as you continue to study His Word and pray.
Doing exactly what God shows you and following the Holy Spirit’s guidance.
Actively pursuing God’s purposes and taking positive action so as to occupy your attention with spiritual matters.
Keeping a humble attitude toward God, others, and the situation in general.
Turning your attention fully to God with the desire to do what honors Him.
Continuing to rely on God and pursue His purposes after you have gained spiritual victory.
Giving gratitude to God for helping you resist and overcome Satan. (2 Corinthians 10:4-5).

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