In this passage, believers are encouraged to submit to God, which means to yield to His authority and embrace His guidance in our lives. Submission to God is an act of humility and trust, acknowledging that His ways are higher than ours. This submission is not passive; it involves actively seeking to live according to God's will and principles.
The second part of the verse emphasizes resisting the devil. This resistance is an active stance against temptation and evil influences. The promise that the devil will flee when resisted is a powerful assurance of victory over sin through God's strength. It suggests that evil cannot withstand the power of a believer who is fully committed to God's will.
Together, these instructions provide a strategy for spiritual victory: submit to God and resist evil. This dual approach empowers believers to live confidently, knowing that they are not alone in their struggles. God provides the strength and support needed to overcome any challenge, and the devil's power is limited when faced with a steadfast believer.