As we step into a new year, we're reminded that while we hope for sweet moments and celebrations, difficult times are an inevitable part of our Christian journey. This message from 1 Peter 5:6-11 offers us a powerful roadmap for navigating suffering with faith and resilience. We learn that our struggles aren't random—they're part of God's transformative plan to shape us and ultimately exalt us. The passage gives us four essential commands: humble ourselves under God's mighty hand, be sober-minded and clear-headed, remain watchful and vigilant, and resist our very real spiritual enemy. What's particularly striking is the reminder that we face a formidable adversary—the devil—who prowls like a roaring lion, especially during our most vulnerable moments. Yet the beautiful truth is that this enemy has already been defeated at the cross. We're not left defenseless in our battles; we're equipped with the full armor of God, with His Word as our sword. When anxieties threaten to overwhelm us, we're invited to cast them on our Father because He genuinely cares for us. This isn't just about future vindication when Christ returns—though that's our ultimate hope—it's about experiencing God's presence and care right now, in the midst of our present troubles.