On a recent trip to the Brookfield Zoo near Chicago, I was near the African lion exhibit when one of the male lions emitted a loud roar. One of the zookeepers informed me that a lion’s roar can be heard up to five miles away! The lion is mentioned over 130 times in the Old Testament, and while it is often used in imagery to depict royalty, the Bible does not shy away from the violent ferocious nature of this creature! For example, in the Old Testament, Daniel was protected from a den of lions who were used to execute a death sentence (Dan. 6:7).

In 1 Peter 5:1–9, the apostle offers counsel to believers, warning them about the devil who is “like a roaring lion” (v. 8). Peter urges the elders to shepherd God’s flock willingly and eagerly, not for personal gain but out of love for their calling. He then urges the younger members to submit to their elders and to each other, clothing themselves with humility.

Central to this passage is Peter’s exhortation to be alert and sober-minded because the devil, a “roaring lion,” is looking for someone to devour (v. 8). “Resist him, standing firm in the faith” (v. 9), Peter advises, reminding believers that they are not alone in their struggles.

Lions are predators, known for their strength and stealth, often attacking the weak or isolated. Similarly, the devil preys on our vulnerabilities, exploiting moments of weakness, doubt, and fear. Peter’s instruction is clear: be vigilant, resist, and stand firm in your faith. Peter also emphasizes humility and dependence on God. He encourages believers to cast their anxieties on God because He cares for them. Through humble trust and reliance on God we find strength to resist the enemy.

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