Yesterday, I was watching our two oldest grandkids play poolside in the condominium complex. As we exited, two women on a second-floor balcony yelled for everyone to get back behind the pool fence. They cried that a black bear was just feet away in the parking lot. We quickly returned to the fenced-in area, and I noticed the kids were calmer than me.
Later, I profusely thanked those strangers for warning of the potential danger, once the coast was clear. I thought about how often we see the danger others are headed for, yet often we say nothing—potentially contributing to the downfall of people we know and love.
Sometimes we have a vantage point that could help others journeying down a destructive path. Perhaps we can learn from strangers who care enough to warn. It’s not your responsibility to decide for someone. It is necessary to lean on wisdom and discernment in deciphering how and when we should advise.
But consider that, today, you may be uniquely positioned to help save someone from disaster.
Reflect + Pray
1. Consider times in your life when you have experienced warning or correction. Offer a prayer of thanksgiving for those who may have taken risks to show you a different path.
2. Pray for those in your life who may be heading down a dangerous path. Ask the Holy Spirit for wisdom in when and how to speak with those in your life who may be in danger.
3. As we bow in prayer on the National Day of Prayer on Thursday, humble yourself and ask God to lead your church, and that you would be unafraid to speak the truth in warning.
4. Pray for the upcoming Foursquare Connection and for strength, logistical ease and resources for the Southeast District, which is hosting.
Share your thoughts. See comments below, and add your own.
