Schwartz on Duty

Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life. Proverbs 4:23

My friend sent me a picture of her beloved lab mix Schwartz.  In the photo, he was sitting in a chair on her back porch.  She explained to me that he sits in it daily and casts his eyes over the backyard and the neighborhood.  He surveys everything around acutely aware of any changes.  Vigilant and ready for whatever may dare to step foot in the yard or wander uninvited onto the street.  Schwartz does not allow anything to distract him from his duty because he knows that his family’s safety is in his vigilance.  In his vigilance, he can see and deal with issues before they become more.

We should be as vigilant in our spiritual lives. There are so many distractions being hurled at us every day.  The constant news feeds of death, crime, politics, and tragedy.  It is very easy to get caught up in it.  I find myself getting depressed and, honestly, frightened by what I read and see in the news and the people’s changes throughout our society. Do not allow these things to fill you with fear and doubt. Instead, focus on his Word and be vigilant in what you feed your mind.  Be mindful of the media that you interact with.  Do not allow yourself drawn into arguments that entice you to anger—the same with politics and news reports.  Protect your heart and mind from the constant flow of negativity.  

I am not suggesting that you stick your head in the sand and ignore what is going on in our communities. Instead, I am encouraging you not to lose yourself to it.  Be always vigilant in what you are exposed to, whether it is social media, television, or merely those around you. Do not lose hope or be consumed with fear. 

Be vigilant.

Typist for Jesus