Devotional
When the Devil Roars: Standing Firm in Faith and Protecting the Weak
Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world” (1 Peter 5:8—9)
May 8, 2026By Paulson Pulikottil
Difficulties in life should not deter us from faith.
The churches to which Peter wrote in his letter (various congregations in the regions of Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia) faced severe opposition and persecution. But Peter reminds them that it is not unusual; Christian congregations scattered throughout the world were facing similar opposition.
In the savannas, the lions roar to frighten their prey, to scatter the herd grazing together. Often, animals that stray from the herd become his lunch. The lions do not attack the herd head-on; they stray the herd and pounce on those that cannot keep up with the rest.
By using this fearful imagery, Peter warns his readers to stay together and not be scattered in times of persecution.
Each believer should be on his own guard. Be watchful, as the group monitors for predators and warns the rest of the herd.
The devil is a lion, roaring to frighten us, pounce on the weaklings, but the community should be watchful not to leave the weaklings behind. Everyone should be alert not to weaken in faith in times of adversity.
“Therefore, lift your drooping hands and strengthen your weak knees, and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be put out of joint but rather be healed” (Hebrews 12:12—13).
Look for that weak member of your faith community who is dragging behind you, while being watchful of yourself. Find those who are discouraged by a bad experience from the community or from outside. Make every effort to keep them in the herd. The lion is still roaring, looking for his prey.