Read James 4:1-10

Spiritual resistance and rest go hand in hand. James calls believers to resist the devil — not with fear, but with confidence in God’s authority. Resistance doesn’t mean shouting or striving; it means standing firm in who you are in Christ. When you refuse the enemy’s lies and temptations, you are resting in the victory Jesus has already secured.

Notice the sequence: submit to God, resist the devil, and then draw near. The power to resist flows from your surrender. The devil flees not because of your strength but because of Jesus’ presence in you. The one who kneels before God can stand before any enemy.

True rest follows resistance. When you stop trying to fight in your own strength and let God fight for you, you’ll experience His peace. The same God who calls you to stand firm also invites you to draw close. He’s not far away in the battle — He’s right beside you, offering strength and stillness.

So today, resist what pulls you away from Him. Rest in the One who’s already overcome.

Reflection Questions:

• What does it look like to “resist the devil” in practical ways?
  
• Why must submission to God come before resistance?
  
• How does this promise give you confidence in spiritual battles?
  
• Where do you need to rest in God’s victory today?

Journaling Prompt:

Reflect on a time when you tried to fight temptation or fear alone. Write about how you can instead resist through surrender and rest in Christ’s power.