I opened my blinds one morning to see it. Right there, staring back at me, was a black cat with the very tail end of a small bird bulging from its mouth.

I was horrified! As I stood there lamenting the bird’s end, I quickly realized the error of my way.

Just a couple months before this unfortunate incident, I had put up a small feeder in an alcove of my yard. I thought it would be lovely to gaze out my window and admire the little birds that often flew into that area.

However, I clearly placed it too close to the windowsill, giving this cat (and maybe others?) an easy drive-thru lane for a fast-food meal!

On this particular morning, as this predator slipped around the corner of my house with his breakfast, I was reminded of another cunning and sneaky feline.

Peter refers to our primary spiritual enemy as a larger cat who spends his time hunting, as well.

“…be alert. Your adversary the devil is prowling around like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” (I Peter 5:8 CSB)

Predatory in nature, our adversary will use any shifty means he can to overcome us.

Simply put, our Christian journey requires our vigilance. But, that doesn’t mean we are to walk around on eggshells wondering if, at any given moment, he can pick us off like that cat did the bird.

Absolutely not!

As children of God, we have the blessing of “…not being ignorant of [Satan’s] schemes” (2 Corinthians 2:11 CSB) as well as knowing how this adventure ends (Revelation 22: 7, 12-13, 20).

God gives us armor (Ephesians 6: 10-18), wisdom (Proverbs 3: 13-26), and His continual presence and protection (Psalms 91) to help us navigate life in enemy territory.

Our willingness to surrender ourselves daily to our Father’s loving care positions us to stand firm on His word and to walk in the confidence that He won’t let “any harm befall us.” (Psalm 91:10)

And to top it all off, He gives us the authority to resist our prowling enemy.

“…resist him, steadfast in the faith…” (I Peter 5:9)

And, as we do, may we lift our hands and shout,“…thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!” (I Corinthians 15:57)

Until next time, Grace and Glory!