“Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip.” (Hebrews 2:1, KJV) Life has a way of robbing us of important things. Through circumstances or busyness, it is easy to neglect the essential issues for the care of our soul. Like a professional pick-pocket, Satan desires to steal everything that provides us with biblical understanding, and fellowship with other Christians and the Holy Spirit.
The Covid-19 virus has robbed many people of important spiritual commitments. Many churches are suffering from a lack of participation because people are afraid of getting around others. And yet, many times, the same ones using the virus excuses to neglect fellowship display no concern whatsoever to go to Walmart, Lowes, or a crowded beach or campsite. People get so comfortable in their non-commitment that laziness becomes their new commitment.
Satan delights in convincing believers to place everything else before church fellowship. God delights when we place church fellowship before the pathetic dainties of the world. If we do not guard our hearts, we will begin viewing Bible study, fellowship, and prayer as disciplines of non-importance. They will slip from our souls, and dryness of spirit and heart will invade our lives.
Reminds me of a story about my Grandfather Ivy. He took my grandmother and their 5 boys (including my Dad, James) to Texas to begin a new life. They were extremely poor and looking for a new beginning in Fort Worth. The year was 1952, and my grandad was offered a good job with an airline. He needed it, as anyone would know that 5 hungry boys can eat you out of house and home.
Roy, my grandfather, was driving home from work, and there was a large black-tailed jackrabbit in the road. He decided to straddle the rabbit to prevent from squashing it under the tires of the car. As he did, the rabbit jumped up, and the car hit him. Roy saw the rabbit kicking violently in the road through his rearview mirror. He thought, “This will provide a meal for my boys.” Therefore, he stopped the car, picked up the lifeless rabbit, and tossed him in the trunk.
Roy could wait to get home and show the boys. As a 13-year-old teenager, my Dad stood there excited to help his Dad clean the rabbit and prepare supper. Roy opened the trunk of the car, and to his and James’ surprise, the jackrabbit jumped out of the trunk and hopped off into the distance. They watched in unbelief as the rabbit bounced up and down until he was out of sight. What appeared to be a sure meal had slipped away!
The blessings and things of God must be guarded. In a world that constantly pulls for our attention and our allegiance, the one thing the enemy of our soul does not want is faithfulness to God. Hold on to the things of faith. Do not let them slip. Before you know it, they will hop away from your heart… You Better Guard Your Rabbit!
