“Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” 1 Peter 5:8
It has probably been over a year ago that I posted a story about a nest I found in our front yard. My oldest son is enthusiastic about everything, but is especially excited about animals. It was spring and I could tell by the movement and noises that there was a baby bird in the nest in our bush. I decided to show my son the nest. We quietly walked toward the nest. The birds were chirping. Chirping is probably too nice of a word as I am sure they were warning me to stay away from their baby. When I came close to the nest I saw the saddest thing. A little featherless bird was half out of the nest but caught on a piece of string. He had twisted himself so much that he was unable to get out. The string was also so strong that it wouldn’t break lose. I tried to pull at the string without touching the bird or being attacked by the mad mommy bird. Sadly the bird eventually fell out and must have broke a leg as it did not survive.
I was reminded of this story this weekend as I talked to a friend about the importance of keeping watch over what we allow in our lives. This momma bird in an attempt to build a home brought some foreign piece of material into her nest that ended up being the demise of her chick. I know absolutely nothing about the science behind birds nest making abilities, but what I did see was that the little piece of string was not the right material. It caused harm.
It convicted me that day. It convicts me today. What do I allow in my “nest?” Whether you have children or not the Bible says for us to be sober-minded and watchful. Our adversary is seeking who he may devour. He wants to steal. He wants to kill. He desires to destroy. God has given us His word and his spirit inside of us to discern the matters of the highest importance. What I allow in front of my eyes, in my ears and in my life WILL impact me and the lives of those around me.
For those with children what an awesome privilege and responsibility we have. We must teach and train our children and then also some day let them go. Will the nest I have created be a stepping stone for greater things or a stumbling block? Will the influences I have allowed in their lives give them strength for the trials they will face tomorrow? It is not enough just to have a home and food on the table. Satan seeks to destroy. I need to be much more mindful of the spiritual food I serve. I need to be mindful of the spiritual boundaries I set.
Lord, you have given me an awesome responsibility to cultivate the lives around me. Let me be mindful of the things I allow in my home and my mind. Let me never compromise due to the culture that we are meant to reach. Convict me. Call me. Change me. Let me always hear your voice and heed to your to your instruction in my life.
That Could Preach 