Stand firm then …
by Ruth Olsen
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This is the fifth devotion in a series of seven based on Psalm 91:9–16.
‘You will trample upon lions and cobras; you will crush fierce lions and serpents under your feet!’ (Psalm 91:13).
In a footnote to this verse, my NIV Study Bible says, ‘These double references to lions and poisonous snakes balance the double references of vv5–6, and complete the illustrative roster of mortal threats’.
We cannot deal with and overcome any terrifying threat ourselves, but only by the power of the Holy Spirit (see Zechariah 4:6). He works in us and through us as we dwell in the Lord’s shelter. Yes, we need to acknowledge our fears, yet, we need to remember that God provides for us in this also.
These ‘mortal threats’ can also refer to when Satan comes against us. If we take God at his word, then Satan will oppose us! But the Apostle Paul wrote, ‘Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armour of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood [people] … Stand firm then …’ (see Ephesians 6:10–20). Wearing the different parts of the armour that God provides for us is simply to ‘put on’ Jesus; he is our covering! He is our truth, righteousness, peace, shield of faith, etc. And we ‘overcome’ Satan by what we say about Jesus and his blood shed for us – our covering won for us at the cross! (see Revelation 12:7–11).
Holy Spirit, teach us to ‘stand’, and to ‘stand firm’. Amen.
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