SUBMIT, AND THEN RESIST

“SUBMIT, AND THEN RESIST”
 
“Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.”
JAMES 4:7 - NKJV
 

I firmly believe the Devil should not play the protagonist or leading character in our lives or ministry. Throughout my Christian walk, I have seen and heard many people affirming with all the strength in their lungs: “Resist the Devil, and he will flee…” Well, that is NOT quite what the text says. The verse in its entirety is: “Therefore, submit to God. Resist the Devil and he will flee from you.” Quite different!!
If we had to choose one word to describe the best way to not get trapped into the Devil’s snares, that word would be “obedience.” No gimmicks, no luck, no “anointed and powerful supplications or person” can take the place of submission to God.
Notwithstanding the fact that, yes, the believer in Jesus Christ has the authority given by the Lord to resist the Devil and face his traps courageously, we cannot live a victorious life dichotomized of submission to God. Submit, then resist. That’s the order, that’s the only way, that’s the command.
The fact is, whether we agree or not, the Enemy knows those who have intimacy with the Lord and walk with Him - we see that clearly in Acts chapter 19. Facing our archenemy has always been something that demands to be covered and wearing the full armor of God, and we cannot wear such a powerful weapon without a life of submission and total surrender to our Lord.
Let’s be aware and watchful, because like our brother Peter said: “The Devil is roaring, willing and ready to devour.”
The command, therefore, is clear: First, submit to the Lord in obedience, and then resist the Devil, and he will certainly flee!

Wishing many blessings to you and your family!
Pastor Joshua