Strength in the Circle

Thursday, November 14

Strength in the Circle

But Jesus answered him, saying, ‘It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God. Luke 4:4

1 Peter 5:8 tells us we have an enemy who roams around like a roaring lion looking to devour anyone he can. We have a very real enemy who prowls like a lion, waiting for the perfect moment to attack. And just like lions in the wild, he knows when to strike—when we’re feeling weak, isolated, and vulnerable. In those moments, his goal is to devour, to dismantle our peace, and to break our spirit.

But here’s the truth: we were never meant to face the enemy alone. In the wild, when a female elephant is weak, the other females in her herd will form a protective circle around her. With their backs in and heads out, they create a barrier between her and any predator, kicking up dust to hide her scent and deter any lurking danger. It’s a powerful display of unity, strength, and loyalty.

This is the kind of support God desires for us. When one of us feels weak, struggling, or alone, we’re meant to surround her, to stand close and protect each other from the attacks of the enemy. We all have those times when we feel vulnerable, yet often we run and hide, thinking it’s better to struggle in silence. But that isolation makes us an easy target.

As followers of Christ, we need to be each other’s circle. When one of us is down, we gather around, pray, and offer support. We shield each other, declaring, “If you want to get to this one you have to go through us first.” When we do this, we become a powerful force against the enemy’s schemes.

Jesus set the example in resisting the devil’s twisted offers. When Satan tempted Him to turn stones into bread to satisfy His hunger, Jesus responded, “No! People do not live by bread alone.” Jesus refused to meet a legitimate need in an illegitimate way.

We, too, have legitimate needs: the need to be loved, to find happiness, to feel peace. But the danger lies in trying to meet those needs in ways that lead us away from God. The enemy wants us to settle for counterfeit fulfillment, but Jesus offers us true satisfaction and real joy.

So, the next time you feel weak, reach out. Don’t hide. Let your friends surround you, pray for you, and protect you. Stand together in truth and lean on one another. We are stronger together, and in that circle of love and faith, the enemy has no chance.

Prayer for today: Lord, thank You for the gift of community and for friends who stand by me when I’m feeling weak. Help me remember that I don’t have to face life’s struggles alone. Strengthen my relationships with those who support me and help me be that support for others. Keep me alert to the enemy’s lies, and help me resist the urge to meet my needs in ways that aren’t from You. Thank You for being my ultimate protector and guide. In Jesus’ name, Amen.