We are living in dangerous times. Sadly our safety and that of our families must be one of our primary concerns. While this is, of course, true in terms of physical safety. It is spiritual safety that should be an even greater concern in the eyes of every Christian.
Scripture tells of the many dangers that face those of us living in the last days. False teachers that hope to lead many away from God are all around us. As well as the devil who is lurking in the shadows waiting to pounce.
Matthew 7:15 (ESV)
15 “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.
1 Peter 5:8 (ESV)
8 Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.
It is important that Christians are aware of these dangers but it is even more important that we know where we can go to find safety. Which is the church, where we are surrounded by believers who care for us and want the best for us? Surrounded by like-minded people that help us keep our lives pointed to God.
The old adage is true, there is safety in numbers. It is near impossible to live a life serving God by yourself. And it is definitely not the safest way to do so. Being alone makes someone even more susceptible to attack. Which is why Jesus spoke of leaving the ninety-nine to go after the one.
Matthew 18:12 (ESV)
12 What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine on the mountains and go in search of the one that went astray?
This is not a reckless act as one may easily assume. It’s not the animals in the heard that get attacked and taken away. But those that have wandered away and find themselves all alone.
The same applies to each of us as members of God’s flock. Our safety is found in numbers. There is no safer place we can be than gathered together at church with other members of the flock. Where the enemy feels outnumbered and where we can receive the encouragement and the edification we need to keep going.
1 Thessalonians 5:11 (ESV)
11 Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.
God uses analogies of sheep, wolves, and flocks for a reason. They help us to understand the reality we are living in. We are all like sheep and those of us who have come to faith in Christ have all become members of God’s flock. To safely make it through this life we mustn’t stray from the flock but stay close. Choosing to embrace the safety that comes through fellowship with other Christians.
There is safety in the church to all those who seek it. Don’t choose to try and stand alone in this world because more than likely you won’t be able too. Instead, realize your need to come together with other believers. Take the advice of scripture and spend even more time among the flock as the last day’s approach.
Hebrews 10:25 (ESV)
25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.
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