On a recent family trip to the mountains, we were driving late at night through thickly wooded areas. A small bright gleam to the left captured our attention, and my husband quickly slowed the car as two deer leaped across our path. We took that teachable moment to explain to our kids the power of peripheral vision—giving them insight to use one day when they’re behind the wheel.
Our spiritual journey can often resemble a drive through mountainous regions in the dark of night. Unable to see the future, we encounter unexpected challenges, sharp curves, and steep grades in the road of life. With that in mind, Paul was preparing his spiritual son Timothy for everyday decisions, as well as for ministry. He wanted him to know the importance of keeping his vision in the right places (1 Timothy 4:13,16) and to be watchful of peripheral dangers (2 Timothy 2:16,22-23).
While the enemy’s attacks often come in the aggressive posturing of a lion (1 Peter 5:8), he also specializes in catching us unaware (Matthew 7:15; 2 Corinthians 11:14). We can’t live in fear—to do so is to pull over on the road of life and refuse to move forward. But we can find the fulfillment that God’s Word promises when we travel in the direction of His leading, remaining aware of the spiritual realm in which we live (Ephesians 6:10-13).
Certainly, our lives can be drastically altered if we refuse to deal with an egregious area of sin. Just as dangerous, though, are the little areas of compromise (Song of Solomon 2:15). Scripture admonishes us: “So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise. . . . Don’t act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do” (Ephesians 5:15,17).
Live prepared (1 Peter 1:13).
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Exodus 9:8–10:29
More:
Read Deuteronomy 4:1-9 to see the relationship between remembrance and obedience and how they can keep us from falling prey to the enemy’s lies.
Next:
In what area has the enemy blindsided you in the past? How can you keep your spiritual vision focused and clear?
tom felten on February 8, 2013 at 8:59 am
Good thoughts, Regina! Even as we’re striving to see what we’ll be doing in the coming days or season of life, it’s so vital to simply do God’s will—to obey Him and follow His instruction. We may not get all the answers we want, but we will be glorifying Him and presenting His reality to those around us.
Terrence Simon on February 8, 2013 at 11:10 am
Thanks for your thoughts.
Need to hold the word of God as a light when we travel in dark.
mike wittmer on February 8, 2013 at 1:43 pm
I like this analogy very much. I think a large problem for many of us that we are living such distracted lives–say texting or talking on the phone while driving–that we are easy for Satan to surprise.