Warnings

It`s imperative that we understand that God has the bigger picture at all times, and knows what`s happening in the spiritual realm even when we, mere mortals, don`t always realise what`s at stake!

Warnings, if heeded, can save us from impending disaster. Traffic lights, for instance, guide us into making the right decisions on the road, so we`re not at the mercy of traffic coming from the wrong direction. This same principle applied in other areas of our lives, will help us to make the right decisions for whatever circumstance we find ourselves in, particularly when we`re intending to take a particular course of action.

In today`s scripture, the enemies of Israel were making plans to attack, but God saved the nation each time, as the prophet gave God`s instructions to the King of Israel, who then promptly obeyed. This thwarted the enemies` plans, and as frustration set in, in the enemy camp, the prophet Elisha (and his servant) then found themselves in the line of fire. This was the time when Elisha’s servant was to learn for himself that obedience and trust in God meant God’s protection was ensured. `And (Elisha) answered, Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them. And Elisha prayed, and said, Lord, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see. And the Lord opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha` (2 Kings 6:16-17).

It`s also important for us to understand that God has different strategies for different occasions, and He issues instructions accordingly. So it doesn`t automatically follow that the strategy for one battle will be the same for another, hence the importance of listening to what God is saying for each individual situation. Joshua learned that the instructions God gave him for the Battle of Ai were quite different from those for the battle of Jericho.

In the journey of life, God wants us to depend on Him, because His plans are always the best, and in our best interest, no matter how unusual they may seem. He can see the danger that`s ahead and knows the best strategy to adopt. So as we develop the habit of constantly checking with the Lord, He promises `I will instruct you and teach you in the way you shall go, I will guide you with my eye`. (Psalm 32:8). As long as we heed the warnings the Lord gives, in any given situation, we`ll be safe. We`ll then have the reassurance and comfort of knowing His presence with us as we journey with Him.

Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us to `Trust in the Lord with all thy heart, and lean not on thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him and He will direct thy path`. Victory lies in obedience, once we`ve heard the Word of the Lord. Therein lies the secret of success. Whatever your situation today, you can be sure that your loving Heavenly Father is looking out for your welfare.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, Help us to heed the warnings You give us in life and to be obedient to Your word at all times, that You may be glorified in our lives. In Jesus` name. Amen.