GARAGE SALE LESSON

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My daughter and I were at a Garage Sale yesterday and out of the corner of my eye, I saw a LITTLE dog. If anyone knows me, they know I have my trauma stories about dogs even though I grew up with them. Needless to say, I'm not fond of dogs and will avoid them at all costs if possible. In some cases, I've learned to tolerate and be around them if I have to, within reason.

So I IGNORE the dog and KEEP shopping. I STAY FOCUSED on what I'm doing. He has no bark but silently walk among the people, also browsing and getting some pats from "dog lovers" I'm sure. I'm aware of his presence but no reason to panic. I take care of my purchases for the grandkids and leave.

This experience reminded me of the Word in 1 Peter 5:8-9. Be sober, be vigilant because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion seeking whom he can devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith..... James 4: 7 Therefore submit to God and resist the devil and he will flee from you.

In that experience I noticed the dog, but he wasn't around me or bothering me. So, there was no reason for me to panic or become anxious of his every move. All I had to do was stay focused on what I was there for. How many times do we see the hand of the enemy and get distracted in who we are and what we should be doing? How many times do we focus on what the enemy is doing versus what the Lord is doing? How many times do we fall prey to his presence because he's around us with no bark? We know that evil is always around, but God's presence is greater and that we can rely on always.

Be encouraged!