29
Aug '25
Over and Under
29
Aug '25
Introduction: Impetuous Peter had to learn WHO he was, not to mention WHO God is. He quickly discovered WHO the devil was. Have you? Follow the trend in this great passage that goes from coming under Authority, to overcoming Anxiety and the Enemy that ultimately leads to Victory.
Here are the four steps.
1. Realize with proper perspective WHO you are and come “under” His Authority! (1 Pet 5:6) – “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time.”
In order to be overcomers, we must learn to come “under.” Are you willing? Submitting to God’s authority is not easy but it is best! Let’s face it, we have a certain amount of independence that wants to oppose authority. Be honest?
2. Remember WHO God is so that He will lift you “over” your Anxiety! (1 Pet 5:7) – “Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.”
Remember to be “careful” is to be full of “care.” Do you have care? Full?
3. Resist the devil because of WHO he is being our “outside” Enemy! (1 Pet 5:8) – “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:”
Our arch enemy is none other than Satan. Peter knew about his attacks; and yet, he also experienced the restoration of Jesus Christ. Bottom line: When we fall prey to the enemy, Jesus Christ will lift us up. Do you need to be restored?
4. Rejoice because WHOSE you are because He that is on the “inside” will give you Victory! (1 Pet 5:9–10) – “Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.”
Praise the Lord for the Victory! In spite of the devil’s attacks, Jesus Christ has overcome the devil; therefore, we too can overcome!
Conclusion: Again, the key to Overcoming is coming under Authority, which leads to rising above Anxiety and the Enemy, and that ultimately leads to Victory.
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese