✟ Evil Is Alive and Well: A Warning Against Complacency

There are moments in our lives when we would like to believe that evil is far removed from us—that it only exists in stories of the past or in faraway places. Yet Scripture reminds us that evil is alive and well in our world. It creeps in through deceit, tempts through subtle compromises, and ensnares those who grow complacent. The Apostle Peter gives us a vivid picture: “Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8 NLT).

As followers of Christ Jesus, we cannot afford to ignore this reality. To pretend that evil is not actively at work in our world today is to give the enemy room to operate in our lives.

The greatest danger of evil is not always its force but its subtlety. Evil often dresses itself in attractive clothing, whispering lies that sound like truth. Paul warned the church in Corinth of this very danger: “But I am afraid that, just as Eve was deceived by the serpent’s cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ” (2 Corinthians 11:3 NLT).

Jesus Himself described Satan as “a murderer from the beginning. He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies” (John 8:44 NLT). Every deception—whether small or great—finds its root in him.

One of the most dangerous traps for Christians is complacency. When we let our guard down, the enemy finds opportunities to plant seeds of sin. Paul exhorts us: “So be on your guard; not asleep like the others. Stay alert and be clearheaded” (1 Thessalonians 5:6 NLT).

Evil seldom overtakes a believer all at once. Instead, it begins with small compromises. James describes this progression: “Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death” (James 1:14–15 NLT).

Though the enemy schemes against us, we are not defenseless. God has provided His people with the means to resist evil and live victoriously. Paul instructs us: “Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil” (Ephesians 6:11 NLT).

This armor—the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, the sword of the Spirit, and constant prayer—is sufficient to guard us against any attack. James offers us this assurance: “So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7 NLT).

Evil may be strong, but our God is stronger. Paul gives us a clear charge: “Don’t let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good” (Romans 12:21 NLT).

The Christian life is not passive. It is a call to active faith, to shine Christ’s light in the darkness, to resist deceit with truth, and to overcome temptation with obedience. We are called to be vigilant, courageous, and steadfast. As Paul reminds us: “Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong. And do everything with love” (1 Corinthians 16:13–14 NLT).

Evil is indeed alive and well in our world, but so is the power of God’s Spirit at work in those who believe. We must not grow complacent, for complacency is the breeding ground of temptation and sin. Instead, let us stand vigilant, fully equipped with God’s armor, and conquer evil by living out the goodness of Christ Jesus in every thought, word, and action.

So, I say to you, “May the Lord strengthen your faith and use it for His glory, as you walk humbly in His presence.”