Our Scripture reading today is 1 Peter 5:8-11.
Verse 8, "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:"
The ultimate goal of our enemy is to devour us.  He isn't simply licking or nibbling on his prey.  Whether he is using sweet or bitter in our life, his goal is always total destruction.  Peter admonishes believers to be ready for his attack.  His devices are many and are very deceiving.  He can even appear as an angel of light.  2 Corinthians 11:14, "And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light."
Our preparations for Satan's attack take place as we daily walk with God in His Word and in prayer.  It sounds so simple, but this dedicated exercise will keep us sober and vigilant.  Reading, memorizing, and meditating on God's Word gives us wisdom and power to overcome Satan's deception and discouragement.  The preparations continue as we faithfully attend and serve in our local church.  We not only receive when we come to church, but we also ought to be looking for ways we can give while we are there.  
It is important that we make preparations daily for the attack of our enemy.  He does not announce when he will attack.