Sober and Vigilant

The Bible says we must sober - “Be free from the influence of intoxicants” (Vine’s Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words). An intoxicant is “an intoxicating agent, as alcoholic liquor or certain drugs” (dictionary.com).

We must be vigilant - “Metaphor: to watch i.e. give strict attention to, be cautious, active: - lest one fall into sin” (Thayer's Greek Lexicon).

Our adversary is the devil, also known as the Prosecutor, “the accuser of our brethren” (Revelation 12:10).

A lion roars when he finds a victim. (Amos 3:4 NLT) The devil, as a roaring lion, walks about looking for victims.

When we repent of our sins, are baptized in Jesus name for the remission of our sins, and receive the gift of His Holy Ghost, God has given us power over sin. (Acts 1:8, Acts 2:38) We can be free from the habits and addictions of intoxicants, and stay off them, if we allow God’s power to work in our life. (Romans 6:6, Galatians 5:24, Galatians 6:14)

With the Holy Ghost within, the Lord opens our eyes and directs our paths so we won’t fall into sin. (2 Corinthians 4:3-6, John 16:13-14, John 14:17-18)

The Comforter, the Holy Ghost within us, is our Advocate and Defense Attorney. Jesus pleads His blood upon us when satan the Prosecutor accuses us of sin in our life. When we have been baptized “IN JESUS NAME” the blood of Jesus has washed away our sins. If we stumble and sin, we should be quick to repent with godly sorrow, so the blood of Jesus may be applied, and so we can continue on the path to live our life for God. (2 Corinthians 7:8-11, 1 John 2:1-2)

We have submitted our life to Jesus when we obey His gospel (Acts 2:38). When we resist the devil, he will flee. (James 4:7)

We shouldn’t think it strange that we have fiery trials. (1 Peter 4:12-13) Our brothers and sisters in the Lord go through this just like we do. It is by trials and temptations that we all are perfected, maturing in Christ, strengthened, standing firm and steadfast in Jesus.

"Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world." - 1 Peter 5:8-9