Be careful!

Things are not always what they seem

“For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also, of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them. Therefore watch, and remember, ….” (Acts 20:29-31a)

As the pastor of a church, we are put in the position of watching over and protecting the flock that God has given us. This is not a task that we should take lightly. It comes with great responsibility! The pastor must answer for what is allowed in the flock. It is a great burden that we must learn to carry. All mature saints should be alert to what is going on at all times. This comes only by having spiritual discernment. Don’t turn a blind eye just because it is in the church. The devil will do anything and everything to cause trouble. We also know that he is subtle and creeps in many different ways. Many times, we just assume that the problem is always the pastor doing something wicked. Now I know it is the under-shepherd’s job to be watchful and sober-minded. Often it is not the pastor that is the wolf in sheep’s clothing, but it is someone he has put in a position in the church. I also understand that there are occasions when the one that is being used to cause confusion may not intend to be a destroyer but ignorance in their actions is what gives them the appearance of a wolf. At other times, the person knows exactly what they are doing. This is why 1 Peter 5:8 says, ” Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.” Now I know Jesus is referred to as The Lion of the tribe of Judah. This lets me know that the devil can use things that resemble the Lord, but in fact, are counterfeits. This is why we must keep our eyes open. The church does not need blind watchmen. Keep your eye open at all times. It can creep its way in through the teaching, in the music, or even in the pulpits when the pastor is gone. Just because you think they are trustworthy, or they are your friends, or they seem to be bringing a crowd does not mean that everything is on point.

The fact is that we must keep our eyes open for the enemy creeping in even if we are not aware of it. Keep a clear head and always be on guard. Many times, things are not what they seem.