Surviving the Wilderness of Life
A harrowing encounter in the Canadian wilderness serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers that lurk in our own lives. My friend, an avid hunter, found himself face to face with four adult grizzly bears charging towards him and his partner. With no escape route and limited defense, their only hope was to stand their ground and pray the bears wouldn’t reach them.
The Bears in Our Lives
As I reflected on this terrifying experience, I couldn’t help but ask myself: what are the grizzly bears in my own life? What are the destructive forces that threaten to destroy everything I hold dear? For many of us, the answer lies in the obvious dangers: infidelity, addiction, greed, and pride. However, there are also more insidious threats like bitterness, laziness, and jealousy.
Identifying the Threats
So, how do we protect ourselves from these predators? The first step is to acknowledge their existence and identify the specific dangers that lurk in our own lives. Each person’s list will be unique, shaped by their individual experiences and struggles.
Playing with Fire
Next, we must recognize the importance of avoiding situations that put us at risk. We can’t play with fire and expect not to get burned. Are our actions and choices pushing us towards danger, or are we taking steps to safeguard our well-being?
Seeking Wisdom
Thirdly, we must draw on a higher power for guidance and wisdom. Spending time in prayer and reading scripture can provide us with the tools we need to navigate treacherous terrain. As 1 Peter 5:6-10 reminds us, “Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.”
The Spiritual Battle
Finally, we must acknowledge the very real spiritual battle that rages around us. The devil is a cunning predator, seeking to devour us at every turn. But we are not helpless. By resisting him firmly in our faith, we can tap into the power of God, who will perfect, confirm, strengthen, and establish us.
The Question Remains
So, what are you doing to ensure the grizzly bears in your life never reach you? Take the time to reflect on your own struggles and weaknesses, and then take action to protect yourself. The wilderness of life can be unforgiving, but with faith, wisdom, and determination, we can emerge victorious.
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