Cats are the most curious animals. They are hunters by nature and cautious with every step. As my black cat crossed the yard, she cautiously looked around after each step. She watched for predators or prey, stopping often to survey the area. She placed each paw with precision in the grass. As she progressed toward the house, she stepped on a small twig which slightly moved. She jumped away preparing to flee. With the guidance of the Holy Spirit, isn’t that how we should walk through life?
I Peter 5:8-9a, NKJV, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him.”
Vigilant Means Self Control
Peter says to be vigilant. Vigilant means self controlled. According to Vines Dictionary, vigilance demands the controlling power of the will under the operation of the Holy Spirit of God. Just like a cat, as we go through our day, we are to remain in control of our actions and thoughts. Simply put, when we need to wash the dishes, but are tempted to procrastinate and watch television leaving the dirty dishes, we need self control and get those dishes washed. Or perhaps it is time to study the Word of God and you pick up your phone to check social media. Next thing you know, the hour has gone by and the Bible is still closed on the table. Self control, vigilance, is needed.
II Peter 1:6, NKJV, “to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance (patience).”
To Knowledge Add Vigilance
The word self control in this verse is the same Greek word as vigilant. Peter suggests to us that what we learn in scripture should be put into practice by faith. By practicing self control in our lives, we will also learn patience. Cautiously making daily decisions and seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit keeps each step we take pleasing to God. However, we are warned that the devil seeks to destroy. Just because we are being vigilant doesn’t mean life will be perfect, but we know God holds us in His hand.
Be Vigilant Without Fear
Two weeks ago, a very hungry dog showed up at our house. After feeding him for a couple of days waiting on the humane society to pick him up, he saw my cat and chased her up a tree. She climbed very high and she was traumatized by this experience. Because of the fear in her, she refuses to go back outside even though the dog is gone. Ugh!
Sometimes as Christians an experience can be so traumatic that fear reigns in our lives. Perhaps hiding from the world and the obstacles we face seem to be the answer. God repeatedly reminds us in His word not to fear. We are a light in the world and our light cannot be seen by hiding or withdrawing. Trust in the Lord. Stand firm. Seek God’s direction for each decision, being vigilant.
Paula Wallace
Additional reading:
https://www.treadingwatertiljesuscomes.com/2019/07/18/jesus-my-lighthouse/
