1. Be ever on your guard against them —
[You have to contend, " not against flesh and blood only, but against principalities and powers :" and therefore must be continually on your guard. This is the advice which Peter gives, and gives from bitter experience. He had been warned by his Lord to watch and pray, and especially because Satan was peculiarly anxious to destroy him. But he slept, yea slept repeatedly, though repeatedly awaked by his Lord : and the consequence was, that he " fell into the snare of the devil." Hence he warns others to " be sober and vigilant, because the devil as a roaring lion goeth about seeking whom he may devour." Moreover, it was in consequence of the Saviour " praying for him that his faith might not fail," that he did not ultimately perish, like Judas, in deep despair. Hence he adds this further direction, " whom resist, steadfast in the faith '^." It is scarcely to be hoped, however vigilant you may be, that Satan shall never get any advantage over you ; but you must not on that account despond, as if he were invincible : for your God has pledged himself that " he will bruise Satan under your feet shortly." Rely therefore on his word ; and in the strength of it go forth again and again to the combat ; praying always, that God would either " not lead you into temptation," or, if he do, that he would " deliver you from the evil one." It is said of young men in Christ, *' that the word of God abideth in them, and they have over- come the wicked one." Let it abide in you also ; and success is yours. The Lord Jesus Christ drew all his arrows from that quiver : " It is written," was the reply with which he vanquished every temptation : and with " that sword of the Spirit, the Word of God," you shall speedily and eternally prevail.]
2. Look to the Lord Jesus Christ as your Protector and Dehverer —
[He is " stronger than the strong man armed :" and, whilst he yet hanged upon the cross, he bruised the serpent's head ; yes, " by death he overcame him that had the power of death, that is, the devil." On the cross " he spoiled all the principalities and powers of hell, triumphing over them in it:" and in his ascension " he led captivity itself captive." Then was the god of this world vanquished : " then was the prince of this world cast out." It is therefore only with a vanquished foe that we have to contend ; for " the prince of this world is judged." Go forth then " strong in the Lord and in the power of his might." Our almighty Joshua calls
k 1 Pet. V. 8.