STAYING SAFE REQUIRES A CONSTANT AWARENESS OF WHAT CAN HURT YOU.

Ephesians 6:11, 13 (ESV)

11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand

13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.

Over the years I have spent hours and hours woodworking, During that time I’ve come to realize how much woodworking relates to our walk with God. I’m not alone.

Today I am sharing the 8th way I’ve discovered that woodworking affirms the spiritual life.

One day at a woodworking store I shook hands with a man who had no thumb. It felt really strange. When I asked him about it, he had two words: “Table saw.” A chill ran through my body.

I’m happy to say I still have all ten digits and both of my eyeballs. That’s because after a couple of close calls I have a healthy respect for what can hurt me.

•       I plan my work and I don’t make cuts if I’m not sure I can’t make them safely. More than once before making a cut, I’ve turned off the saw and said, “Nope. It’s just not worth the risk.”

•       I wear safety glasses.

•       I usually pray for safety each time I begin working in the shop.

Are you aware of what can hurt you spiritually?

•       When you’re in temptation, you need to walk away, knowing the sin is just not worth it (Galatians 6:7-8).

•       Remember that you have an enemy and you are in a war. Satan wants to destroy your life and your witness. “Be on the alert,” Peter urges us. “Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8).

•       The Lord has provided “the full armor of God” for us to put on each day (Ephesians 6:11, 13).

Dear Lord, help us to be aware of the evil one and how he wants to harm us. Thank You that with Your power we can defeat him. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.