lystn

Proverbs 1:17 NLT

'If a bird sees a trap being set, it knows to stay away.'

As Katey’s MS advanced I needed to be more vigilant. As muscle wastage affected her limbs, the same deterioration was taking place within. Her swallowing was severely affected so I had to take great care over the preparation of food and how she ate. Twice we had serious choking episodes that required the paramedics to attend, horrible to observe, but much worse for Katey to experience.

I slept in a cabin bed in the same room where Katey had her hospital bed at home. I learned to sleep lightly with one ear open. Her breathing was shallow and sometimes faded away – I woke and was at her side in an instant. She often remained asleep, so once satisfied she was OK I returned to bed, but not to sleep. Here in the dark hours of the night I began to learn the value of repetitive prayer.

I once left for the shops, forgetting I had a pot on the stove. Fortunately, carers arrived and turned it off. The incident form had to be completed and I was closely cross-examined about my competency and capacity to care. Though humiliating and trying, it was a reminder that vigilance can never be taken for granted, no matter how well-intentioned and experienced we are. With following God, we must at all times be vigilant. The enemy is forever baiting hooks that will definitely attract us, yet lead to our capture by evil. It explains why so many wonderful disciples have fallen from great heights and been exposed in compromised and sinful situations.

I have discovered it’s as essential to keep a careful watch for possible dangers and difficulties in my Christian walk as it was in caring for Katey. Had I failed to do so she may have experienced a tragic and painful end to her life. How much more must we avoid having our spiritual life snuffed out by a vicious and persistent predatory foe?

QUESTION: What steps do you take to maintain vigilance on your spiritual health?

PRAYER: Lord, lead me not into temptation but deliver me from evil.