Fix your eyes

"Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world." 1 Peter 5:8-9

On Sunday morning, in Torrington, Connecticut, Michael Walsh, 25, was fatally struck by a city snowplow. The story posted in Runners World (http://www.runnersworld.com/general-interest/runner-killed-by-snowplow), says he was struck at 5:14 a.m. while not wearing reflective gear, running with traffic and while wearing earphones. It's reported that he moved into the road to avoid a puddle or debris. Such a tragedy. 

Obviously we can't live in a bubble but there are certain things we can and should do when running outside this winter:

- Run facing traffic at all times

- Wear reflective clothing

- Turn down the volume on your earphones or leave them at home

- Look around before venturing out to avoid obstacles of any kind 

- Wear a Road ID to help emergency personnel identify any special needs

By following these steps and staying alert and aware of your surroundings, you can run safely through the winter season. The bible tells us to "be sober-minded" and to "be watchful" in our daily lives as well to avoid injury or death. It tells us that the "devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour." Genesis 3:1 says, "Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the LORD God had made. He said to the woman, "Did God really say, 'You must not eat from any tree in the garden'?" And, you know the rest of that story... if Satan can trick Eve, who walked with God, how much more can we be tempted and tried if we aren't sober-minded and watchful?

Colossians 3:1-2 gives us this reminder, "set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things." Stay focused, sober-minded and watchful at all times. This is the best way to stay safe in a world full of puddles, debris and trials. Above all, resist him and stand firm in your faith. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us the tools to protect ourselves against the schemes of the devil. May we be ever watchful knowing that Satan is always looking to devour us. This is not a game and we know that the devil wants nothing more than to destroy your people. Help us to resist him and stand firm in the faith at all times. It's in your precious name that we pray this Jesus, Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Fix my eyes - For King and Country

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NM-Bf9gE0gw