Sometimes, as a child, it is hard to comprehend the danger around you. I used to run barefoot across the yard because I did not want to take the time to put on shoes. What good did they really do? After you walk into an anthill filled with those red little fire ants, you realize the value. Your eyes are now constantly on the look out for those dirt-laden pyramids. However, if I thought never going outside and remaining indoors forever would solve anything, I was wrong. Being indoors does not take away the danger. In the house, I stepped on wasps and still would get bit by some little fire ant that snuck into the house. I could not evaporate all the anthills, nor could I live without elements of danger around me. But the beauty is I learned to be aware of the dangers around me and how to protect myself (which included putting shoes on).

I tell this because in this life, there will be dangers – spiritual and physical ones. As Christians we are called to be cautious, aware, observant. Peter tells us to “be vigilant,”¹ to keep constant watch, for the devil lies around waiting to destroy us. Jesus told His disciples to “watch and pray.”² We must watch out for those anthills in our spiritual lives – those things that build up and endanger our walk – things like lies, discontentment, anger, pride, hatred, strife, and envy. These creep up when we don’t expect them and where we don’t expect them. And if allowed, they build until they destroy us. We must pray and seek God; ask Him to reveal to us those hidden anthills of danger in our lives. They are there, and we don’t want to be blind to them. Do not go near them. Put on the armor of God, which includes shoes, and do not step into the danger of sin around you. Instead, walk according to the Spirit and in obedience to Christ.

Your sister in Christ,
Charisa

1. 1 Peter 5:8 ↩︎
2. Matthew 26:41a ↩︎