The dynamics of discipleship (part 45)

“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” – I PETER 5:8

The devil is a skilled hunter seeking an easy kill and just as a lion lurking in the weeds he looks for the weak, the young and the infirmed.

David was a target, and the devil had him in his sights, watching until an opportune time to attack. The door was opened when David didn’t go to war but instead decided to take a break.

There is nothing wrong with resting but even then you can’t let your guard down and become complacent.

David was burned out beyond rest and he was a “smoldering wick.” He had allowed all the trials of life to wear him down and the accusations of the devil bringing guilt and condemnation upon him because of his responsibilities being King of Israel.

This why thousands of ministers and pastors burn out and leave the ministry every year.

When one is burned out he will often times isolate himself – and isolation brings about desolation. With no time for God and no communion in the Spirit, the enemy moves in and takes advantage of the situation.

Sheep don’t do well alone and that is when the wolves strike. When David first saw Bathsheba he should have turned in the other direction and resisted the temptation.

“Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone. But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death. Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren.” – JAMES 1:12-16