"Heeding Warnings"

“Heeding Warnings”

 

On August 30 emergency personnel along Florida’s Gulf Coast issued orders to evacuate due to anticipated storm surges from Tropical Storm/Hurricane Idalia. (Similar warnings had been given as Hurricanes Irma and Ian approached in 2017 and 2022.) But there was an added caveat with Idalia: it was stated that rescue workers wouldn’t be put at risk after a certain time if people chose not to move inland for their safety. Thankfully most took the authorities’ directive seriously and casualties were minimal.

Every day we’re faced with warnings such as signs for road hazards, taking medications and using machinery. Do we heed them? Failure to do so can have devastating results with loss of lives and permanent maiming. Hardly a day goes by without news stories of tragic outcomes stemming from ignoring such advice.

Many times in Scripture God tells us not to be deceived—by Satan (“…We’re not oblivious to his sly ways.”—2 Corinthians 2:11, TM), people (“Don’t let anyone deceive you in any way….”—2 Thessalonians 2:3) or ourselves (“Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves”—James 1:22). What’s the best way to keep from being led astray? By following our Lord’s brother’s counsel: “Do what (the word) says.” (James 1:22, emphasis added). But to do so we must know what it says (“I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.”—Psalm 119:11). So when deception tempts us a good dose of God’s truth can overcome the threat—read Matthew 4:1-11 to see how Jesus did this.

God is loving, merciful and patient—but also just. Time and again He warned His people through His prophets to repent and turn back to Him but their words were largely rejected. The result? The loss of their land, destruction of the temple and captivity in a foreign nation. Has He changed? Listen to the words of our Lord’s friend: “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise…He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:9, emphasis added). But God’s patience isn’t endless—in the words of an anonymous hymn writer, “Soon will pass God’s day of grace.” God has spoken—heed His warning through Paul: “…Now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.” (2 Corinthians 6:2, emphasis added).

 

Grace and Blessings!

                                                                 Jim McMillan