Beware

In our world today, we just need to beware! Although we only find this word used 26 times in the Bible, mostly in the New Testament, it is always used as a warning. Wake up because something is wrong or about to go askew!

Although written many years ago, can we still find reasons to adhere to these commands? I seriously doubt that they are requests!

 Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ. Colossians 2:8 (NKJV)

“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves…” Matthew 7:15 (NKJV)

And now beware! Be sure that you feed and shepherd God’s flock—his church, purchased with his blood—for the Holy Spirit is holding you responsible as overseers. Acts 20:28 (TLB)

“Beware of the teachers of the law. They like to walk around in flowing robes and love to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces and have the most important seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets.  They devour widows’ houses and for a show make lengthy prayers. These men will be punished most severely.” Luke 20:46-47 (NIV)

And beware that you do not raise your eyes toward heaven and see the sun and the moon and the stars, all the host of heaven, and let yourselves be led astray and worship them and serve them, [mere created bodies] which the Lord your God has allotted to [serve and benefit] all the peoples under the whole heaven. Deuteronomy 4:19 (AMP)

These are very specific messages that require us to be alert. Things are happening around us and we better take note. Beware suggests a great deal is going on behind the scenes that we cannot easily see. Even though the world is changing, we are encouraged to keep our eyes on Jesus, for with Him on our side, we have nothing to fear. It is when we become lackadaisical that the enemy subtly infiltrates and starts messing with our minds.

Don’t let the word ‘beware’ scare you! It is a loving message from our heavenly Father who does not want to see us injured or hurt. Ask God’s Spirit to help you be aware and always relying on Him.

Who’s Afraid of the Big Bad Wolf?

Father, we thank You for Your words of protection. Help us to be spiritually alert and awake to what is happening around us every day. Help us continue to look to Jesus for direction and safety. AMEN.