READ
REFLECT
Warnings are all around us. In the gym, we are cautioned not to lift more weight than we can safely handle. When driving, we see signs that say “Slow Down” or “Stop.” If we ignore these warnings, we risk getting fined, hurt, or even seriously injured.
Warnings are there to keep us safe. They are designed to help us avoid problems. When we ignore warnings, we put ourselves and others at risk.
The Bible is also full of warnings.
Bible Warnings
In Thessalonians 3:6, we warned against being idle, which means spending time doing nothing. The Scripture says, “In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we command you, brothers and sisters, to keep away from every believer who is idle and disruptive and does not live according to the teaching, you received from us.”
In Matthew 7:15, we are told to watch out for false prophets. “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.”
In 1 Peter 5:8, we are told to be sober-minded, which means to live with focus and avoid distractions. The Scripture tells us why we need to be sober-minded. “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”
- Can you think of a time when you felt God warned you, and it kept you safer?
As believers, we are constantly warned about the Devil and his deception. When we listen to those warnings, it makes it much more challenging for Satan be successful.
Because of Jesus, we are able to see The Devil coming. We know how to fight back against his attacks and lies. And as the Christian singer, David Crowder, says, we all have something that make the “Devil gonna run.”
RESPOND
1. Commit 1 Peter 5:8 to memory.
