Be Prepared

Throughout His ministry, Jesus often used illustrations when giving instructions, compelling His listener to consider a deeper meaning. And when empowering His disciples, right before sending them out into the world, Jesus told them:

“Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭10:16‬ ‭ESV‬‬

What do a bunch of animals have to do with Jesus’ directions? Here are a few things to note:

First, Jesus didn’t romanticize the disciples’ mission. He didn’t entice them with comfort, luxury, or a false sense of security. Instead, He prepared them for what was ahead by warning them of pending danger—of “wolves” who would try to destroy them.

Second, Jesus compared His disciples to sheep. Not power-hungry and dominant animals like lions, tigers, or bears, but obedient and humble animals like sheep. And sheep need to stick close to the Shepherd—and to each other—for protection and progress.

Third, Jesus advised His disciples to be wise like snakes, yet innocent like doves. To use their brains while also keeping tender hearts. To not forsake their intuition while also keeping themselves pure. To leverage their wit while also remaining blameless.

And even though Jesus gave this particular message to the disciples that were with Him face to face, His words still apply to His followers today.

We live in a good-yet-fractured world. A world where evil is allowed to exist—for a temporary allotment of time. But, despite the wickedness we see on the news and in our own neighborhoods…

We have been sent into the world—to be wise and righteous, to be smart and tender, to be truth and grace.

So be prepared for resistance—because we have a real enemy.

But remember who you are—because you’re a child of God.

And don’t forget to use your brain and your heart—because God gave you both.