A few years ago we were in Custer State Park in South Dakota. It is an absolutely beautiful place to see. We saw so much wildlife and buffalo up close to our car. I love seeing all that God has created. His handiwork is magnificent, and I am often reminded of His creativity as well.
There was a designated area in the park where you could see prairie dogs. Oh my goodness, I was so excited to see them! As we arrived at this area and got out of our car, a Park Ranger came and warned us to be careful ….of rattlesnakes. He informed us that they live in the prairie dog holes.
My husband and I then went in two different directions. He went to see them. I went to the car. As cute as little prairie dogs are, I didn’t want to take a chance to encounter a dangerous viper hiding in the home of something so cute.
Let’s go back to the Garden of Eden. Adam and Eve were enjoying the best, perfect and most beautiful creation without a care in the world. God had instructed them how to live and warned them of danger. But then comes satan taunting them and assuring them it would be ok. And we know what happens next, they ate of the tree that God clearly told them not to and it changed the trajectory of mankind.
Satan is clever. He glamorizes harmful things to look appealing. He is a liar. He will use any means necessary to get you off track with the Lord. Satan is a predator seeking whom he can devour. “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” (I Peter 5:8) None of us are off limits.
Satan’s methods are crafty. There are many things that satan will use to distract, discourage and devour us as Christians. Distractions during quiet time keeps you from being armed against satan. If he can keep you discouraged, bitter, downtrodden, depressed, then he can keep you from finding joy and peace. Satan will use the internet, TV, drugs, alcohol, and lust to devour you. What looks appealing can lure you into a devastating trap.
Today, I want to urge you to pay attention to the warning signs. Have you fallen for satan’s schemes? Does he have you doubting Truth? Are you dabbling in things that go against the Word of God?
Satan doesn’t own you and he has no authority in your life unless you give him authority. Don’t be caught off guard and lured into his trap, it could have deadly consequences. As a Christian, you are owned by Christ. He is your authority and you belong to Him.
But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. (IPeter2:9)
Fun fact: This was taken at Badlands National Park. There were plenty of warning signs there, but no warning sign near the prairie dogs.