Take heed so you don't fall

“Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall.” 1 Corinthians 10:12 ESV

In a story published yesterday by the New York Post, the following was reported: A famous ultramarathon runner was attacked by a coyote during a 150-mile run in California — and he recounted the terrifying encounter minutes after it happened. In a graphic video posted to Instagram, Dean Karnazes, 59, said he was running through Marin Headlands early Saturday morning when the wild animal lunged at him. Karnazes shared the footage of himself bleeding from his lip while warning others to beware of coyotes. “I just had something rather terrifying happen,” he said. “I got attacked by a coyote. That was a first.” The runner said he was luckily using poles on the trails and used one to whack the animal. The ultramarathoner said he believes the coyote wanted his energy bar. As he began to take a bite, he said the animal lunged and knocked him to the ground. Wow! Talk about being caught by surprise. Even a seasoned ultrarunner like Dean didn’t see that one coming.

And you know, when it comes to being taken by surprise, the Bible warns us to “take heed"-- meaning that you and I should never let down our guard when it comes to sin, thinking we are standing so firm that nothing can cause us to stumble in our Christian walk. Furthermore, this “take heed” warning as defined means that we are to pay careful attention to something and to be watchful and alert to avoid it. And that something is sin. You see, the enemy is always trying to trip us up and is best able to catch us by surprise when we are 'running' along without a care or concern about what might be waiting to jump out at us. But that’s how Satan operates. The temptation to fall away can come out of nowhere. And if we’re not ready, we will fall prey to the attack.

So if you think you are standing firm in your faith today, think again my friend. ALWAYS be on the alert for the things that can cause you to sin. Be ready for the enemy's attacks so that when (not if but when) they come, you’ll be ready to fight back. You may come out a bit bruised and battered from the battle but you'll come out victorious and that's what's important. 

Heavenly Father, we thank you so much for the armor of God that you give us to battle against sin and every spiritual attack of the devil. Remind us that we are not only to put it on each and every day but must remain sober and alert at all times so that we do not fall prey to the enemy’s plans to harm us. Help us to be humble, knowing our need for You, so that we would not neglect getting into the Word and tapping into Your power each and every day. It’s in your holy and precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!