Aware of the Threat
I don't believe in the boogey man. Phew, there I said it!
Oh, I used to when I was a child but learned that there was nothing under the bed when the bedroom lights went out. The only reason I knew that was because I took a flashlight with me and switched the light off only to shine that flashlight everywhere in that room. Thought I might catch that boogey man sneaking out after the light went out. Never did see the monster though. What I could have done with a "Clapper"??
I guess there is value in always being prepared even when you don't have to be. That same sentiment is echoed in the New Testament book of 1 Peter 5. It's so important to be aware and at the ready. Take a look.
Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due
time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. Be alert and of sober mind.
Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to
devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of
believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings. And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a
little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen. (1 Peter 5:6-11, NIV)
Sadly, many people who find Jesus and begin their life of faith do so with blinders on and pay no attention to the risks that abound nearby. In case one might have missed it, evil and Satan are running rampant. There is nothing better for the great deceiver, Satan, than to derail a new person to the faith. More often than not, the new believer considers their faith journey something that needs no work or maintenance. Left alone, the new believer is a target just waiting to be struck by the devil. "Be alert and of sober mind"
This morning, I walked to the back window to watch the fascinating collection of birds at the feeder. There were Tree Sparrows, Tufted Titmouse, Cardinals, Mourning Doves and many more. Much to my horror, a Red Tailed Hawk swooped in from out of nowhere and seized one of the small Tree Sparrows and whisked it into the trees to end its life. I stood and watched in shock at the swiftness the event occurred.
It brought to mind the text from 1 Peter 5 how the Devil is always looking for an unsuspecting target. A roaring lion that swoops in and ends the life of a new Christian. The devil is swift, efficient, and deadly. The only defense one has against this foe is to be ready, vigilant, alert, and surrounded by other believers. (A flashlight isn't necessary, but the light of Jesus Christ is!)
To ignore the threat or to believe there is no threat is foolhardy and not advised. To understand the credible presence and danger of the devil is to acknowledge scripture and place a high premium on Christian fellowship and alertness.
Today, take stock in your surroundings. Find people of like mind to share your life of faith with and walk resolutely and in step with the Holy Spirit of God. These are the things that keep us safe and protected from that one who would love to destroy us.
"A Musing Pastor"