Be [a]sober, be [b]vigilant; [c]because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world.

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Footnotes

  1. 1 Peter 5:8 self-controlled
  2. 1 Peter 5:8 watchful
  3. 1 Peter 5:8 NU, M omit because

Be sober [well balanced and self-disciplined], be alert and cautious at all times. That enemy of yours, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion [fiercely hungry], seeking someone to devour. But resist him, be firm in your faith [against his attack—rooted, established, immovable], knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being experienced by your brothers and sisters throughout the world. [You do not suffer alone.]

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He Gets the Last Word

8-11 Keep a cool head. Stay alert. The Devil is poised to pounce, and would like nothing better than to catch you napping. Keep your guard up. You’re not the only ones plunged into these hard times. It’s the same with Christians all over the world. So keep a firm grip on the faith. The suffering won’t last forever. It won’t be long before this generous God who has great plans for us in Christ—eternal and glorious plans they are!—will have you put together and on your feet for good. He gets the last word; yes, he does.

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Conclusion

Be serious!(A) Be alert!(B) Your adversary the Devil(C) is prowling around like a roaring lion, looking for anyone he can devour. Resist him(D) and be firm in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are being experienced by your fellow believers throughout the world.

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Be alert and of sober mind.(A) Your enemy the devil prowls around(B) like a roaring lion(C) looking for someone to devour. Resist him,(D) standing firm in the faith,(E) because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.(F)

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