Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall.
I Corinthians 10:12 ESV
We were walking the dog early in the morning to avoid the heat. About a block from our front door, a cat ran from her hiding place under a nearby car. The kitty crossed the sidewalk in front of us and ran under a bush. The leash jerked tight as the dog leaped forward, ready to give chase. My husband went down on all fours as the leash wrapped around his feet. Two ladies, sitting on their front porch, were witnesses to the fall. They sympathized and told similar stories of slipping, tripping and being dragged by big dogs.
We were not prepared for our dog, Danni being tempted by an unexpected kitten and I am not always prepared for life’s unexpected trials and temptations. I am walking along, standing strong and suddenly I slip and find myself down on all fours. Unfortunately, there are usually witnesses to the fall. Some may judge but others sympathize and understand. They are there to give you a hand, helping you to pull yourself up and keep walking. Galatians 6:1 states, “Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted.” Faithful friends are there to encourage.
When we find ourselves flat on our face, God is faithful. He tells us that no temptation is new. He will provide a way of escape and help us to endure (I Corinthians 10:13). Psalm 18:36 tells us, “You gave a wide place for my steps under me, and my feet did not slip.” He will not only make our paths straight, God will lift you up and set you high upon the rock.
Temptations are not announced ahead of time allowing us to prepare the correct Christian response. I Corinthians 10:12 warns us to take heed. I Peter 5:8 exhorts us to be sober-minded and alert. Know the path you are on and take precautions. II Timothy 4:2 tells us to be prepared in season and out of season. My husband and I knew there were cats in the neighborhood, but still slipped and fell.
Jesus understands. Hebrews 4:15 says, “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin.” He doesn’t judge you. He has faced the enemy and overcome temptation victoriously. Jesus is our advocate.
When you fall, Jesus will pick you up. When you are weak, he is your strength. When you are hungry, he is the bread of life. When you thirst, he provides rivers of living water. Jesus is your all in all.
Know your feet are planted firmly on the solid rock but if you slip, he is waiting to pick you up.
Just Another Dog Devotion 