Slippery When Wet

I want you to recall the words spoken in the past by the holy prophets and the command given by our Lord and Savior through your apostles. 2 Peter 3:2 (NIV)

How often do we read a sign and say, “yeah, I know that” only to experience the warned consequence later? We know exactly where and what the sign is warning, but we pay no attention. Sharon Hinck (Mornings with Jesus) shares her thoughts on this matter.

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Our city constructed a cordoned-off boardwalk along a road near an area of wetlands. At both ends of the boardwalk, signs warn “Slippery When Wet.” Those entering the wooden path had fair warning. In the middle of the special path, there is an overlook to pause and watch herons and red-wing blackbirds. Another bold sign alerts people the boards may be slippery.

My husband and I chuckled about the redundancy. Since one can only enter the boardwalk from either of the two ends, walkers have already been warned. What good does a sign in the middle do?

But the truth is, when a path is hazardous, we might need another reminder. People are quick to forget; I know I am.

I’ve noticed the same need for reminders in my spiritual life. I know Jesus. I know He loves me. So why do I need all the repetition of prayers, hymns, church services, Bible readings, fellowship, sacraments? Because Jesus knows that I easily forget.

He has called believers to remember Him in various ways. When the path of life gets slippery, He reminds me to keep my eyes fixed on Him.

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A personal experience: When I was visiting Michael, he took me to the muck to see wildlife. There was a planked walkway and the first thing he said was, “Be careful. It can be slippery,” but then he took my hand. I think Jesus does that for us too. He warns us over and over but then as we start to slide, He grabs our hand and guides us.

Savior Like a Shepherd Lead Us

Faith Step: Create a reminder today to turn your thoughts to Jesus. It could be a Post-it on a mirror, a rubber band on your wrist, or an alarm that rings to remind you to stop and pray, and keep your eyes fixed on Him.