Alert and Praying
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I stared in awe. Every branch of every tree was incredibly weighed down with the heaviest snow I had ever seen! We pulled into the freshly plowed parking lot, strapped on our snowshoes, and started up the trail. The massive snowfall muted our voices in the complete stillness. Thankful for the few people who had gone ahead of us, my husband led the way as we trudged toward the remote lake, enjoying the indescribable beauty and keeping alert. Hiking in deep, fresh snow means there are dangers not present at other times, including tree wells. A tree well is the area under a tree where there is not as much snow as the surrounding area. It is possible to fall headfirst into the “well” and be almost swallowed up by the snow around it. People have died in tree wells. The Bible reminds me to be alert for the enemy seeking to swallow me in deep trials and temptations that can catch me off guard.
I also need to be alert to the signs of the coming of Jesus.
In addition to being alert, it is important not to walk alone in difficult terrain where great danger exists. And in the journey of life, how grateful I am for others who walk with me and help me stay alert to danger in my path. Ephesians 6:18 reminds me that being alert includes prayer on all occasions and being a woman who keeps on praying for all the Lord’s people! I have a group of friends I can ask to pray at any time. I have asked for prayer over family members, decisions, discouragements, health concerns, and much more! If someone falls into a tree well, 90 percent of the time, they cannot get out on their own. You and I need prayer friends to help “dig us out” of the difficult and even dangerous places on our journey.
Why not commit to being that prayer friend for someone today? Ask the Holy Spirit to show you someone who needs prayer support, and when you do, I believe He will provide the same for you. Stay alert. Keep on praying. And your faith journey will be a beautiful adventure.
DeeAnn Bragaw
