Formed Day 17: Temporary Residents in Enemy Territory

Scripture:

“Dear friends, I warn you as ‘temporary residents and foreigners’ to keep away from worldly desires that wage war against your very souls.” — 1 Peter 2:11 (NLT)

Devotional

Scientists frequently discuss landing on Mars and colonizing it, but the primary obstacle is that the planet's toxic air and soil are inhospitable to human life. Surviving there would require changing our whole genetic makeup.

Peter uses similar language to describe a believer's position on earth, calling us "temporary residents and foreigners". The world and its desires are actually waging active war against our souls.

Sun Tzu's The Art of War states, "Shape the enemy's perception before you ever strike". The enemy tries to convince us that we belong in a sin-manufactured oasis, making us feel safe and comfortable so we lower our guard in a war zone. We must never confuse earthly comfort, safety, or security with true spiritual belonging.

Reflection

Have you grown so comfortable in worldly habits that you've forgotten you are living in a spiritual war zone?

Prayer Prompt

Father, remind me today that this world is not my permanent home. Guard my soul against worldly desires that wage war against me, and give me discernment so I am not lulled into false comfort. In Jesus' name, Amen.