New dangers surround us daily, not only physical but emotional and spiritual. The best way to avoid them and protect ourselves and our families is through God’s Word and prayer.
Eternal Perspectives by Sally Bair
Danger ahead
Danger! Allergens ahead! Perhaps such signs should be posted. For those of us who suffer from allergies, ragweed and other flora cause us misery, and even danger for asthmatics. Other worse dangers many face are tornadoes, hurricanes, and forest fires. The list goes on.
No land is free of danger. Even pristine Alaska contains challenges. For instance, the enormous, deceptively nice-looking leaves of the Devil's Claw plant are wicked. Like thorny blackberry barbs times ten, the Devil’s Claw needle-like, barbed spines cover the underside of each leaf, along the veins, and around the stem.
Brochures and signs urge travelers in Alaska and northwestern Canada to wear long pants and heavy, long-sleeved shirts while trekking through the bush country. Such protection promises a more enjoyable time in the wilderness.
Other warning signs are common in the northwest wilderness, such as Moose Crossing, Don't Feed the Bears, Danger—Rip Tides, and Beware of Incoming Tide (posted near certain tide pools that have no easy access back to shore). One warning is posted by the tidal mud flats along Turnagain Arm south of Anchorage where many have drowned after being stuck in the innocent-looking quicksand beach during high tide.
No matter where we live, we’re wise to heed the warnings that helpful citizens and government workers have put up for our safety. After all, we are surrounded by things that appear innocent and enjoyable but hide danger.
It's best to heed the warnings of the Bible, too. God's Word is full of them. We do well to be watchful of the devil’s temptations so we don't falter in our faith. Daily, diligent prayer and meditation of His Word will help keep our minds and hearts pure and free from the “devil’s claw.”
Peter said, "Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith…." (1 Peter 5:8) Jesus said to His disciples, "I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves." (Matthew 10:16) Even the prophets of the Old Testament cried out many warnings to the people. In fact, most of the authors of the Bible admonished God's people to beware of the devil, the world, and their own fleshly desires. We would do well to heed God's biblical warnings. The devil's claws are harmful, indeed.
Lord, keep us ever mindful of the deceptions around us. Clothe us in Your armor of truth and righteousness so we can walk more joyfully through the wilderness of life with You. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. In Jesus' name, amen.
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