Lord, Keep That Fox Away!

It never ceases to amaze me, the way God teaches us things, or sometimes reminds us of things, through the simple moments in our everyday lives. I catch myself quite often, pausing and reflecting upon (sometimes even chuckling at) lessons learned... and HOW I learned them. My pets are often the source of such instruction. In fact, just the other night, I was reminded of something so very important to me, through a routine I go through with my cat.

First of all, I should tell you that my cat, Abigail, acts as though she thinks she's a dog. She goes to the back door and cries to go outside when she has to go potty; then cries to come in again, after she's done. It's quite comical, at times. Most cats are either inside or outside breeds; seldom do you see one that is happy in both.

Anyway, considering the unfortunate problem we've had with foxes feasting on our chickens and guineas, I get nervous about letting Abby go outside after dark. I try to coax her into using her litterbox, instead; but usually, she continues begging until I finally give in and let her go outside. That's when I begin praying for her... for the Lord to keep her safe, and to keep the foxes at bay.

The other night, as I was praying for Abby's protection, I thought about how familiar my prayer sounded... not just because I had prayed it so many times before, but because it was in many ways the same prayer Mama used to pray for us (my younger brother and me), as we were growing up. I used to love listening to her prayers at bedtime. Though she was in her bedroom down the hall, I could still hear every word. And every night, she would pray for the Lord to keep us safe, to protect us from all harm, and to keep the enemy at bay. It gives me goose bumps, just thinking about Mama's prayers; and how remarkably similar my own prayers for Abby are, when she goes outside at night.

What's more... it reminds me that I need to be praying more fervently those same prayers for my niece and nephews. They're at the age now that's so crucial in their spiritual walks; they NEED the Lord's protection & blessings upon their lives. I can't afford to be slack in my prayer-time for them. In fact, the best gift I could ever give them is prayer. Just as Mama prayed for my brother and myself, all those years ago... for the Lord to protect and keep us; and to keep the enemy away... just as I now pray for Abby, for the Lord to protect and keep HER safe, and to keep the foxes from bringing her harm... I should be praying the same for these children, as well.

Ya know, the devil is often referred to as a "sly old fox". We sang a little song about that in Sunday School, when we were children. He hasn't changed, all these many years later. He's still sneaky and up to no good! And that's why it's so important that we be on the lookout for him, and be prepared for his attacks. I can't think of a better way to protect ourselves (and those we love) than by prayer.

The Lord has proven Himself faithful time and time again. Mama's prayers for our protection and safety have been answered, and are still being answered today. So I know I can place my trust in Him, for His continued faithfulness. What a blessing!

I'd like to encourage you to think about those children that might be important to you... be it your own children or grandchildren, your nieces or nephews, friends and neighbors... whomever they might be... think about them daily, and remember to pray for them, asking the Lord's blessings upon their lives; for His provision and watchcare over them. Pray that the Lord would keep them safe from the enemy (we all know who that is... none other than satan himself). Pray for their salvation. Pray that they'd grow in the knowledge and admonition of the Lord.

I've learned firsthand, God is still in the saving business. He is faithful to complete that which He started. He is not willing that any should perish. He's given us the opportunity (actually, it's a priviledge) to come boldly before His throne, and make known the petitions that weigh heavily upon our hearts.

Who is it that's weighing on YOUR heart? Have you been praying for them today? If not, now is a great time to start!

Leave a reply by clicking the "comments" link below. Thanks!