Danger: Understanding Spiritual and Physical Perils in Christian Life

Danger presents itself in many forms throughout our Christian journey—both physical threats and spiritual perils that require wisdom, discernment, and unwavering faith to navigate successfully.

Avoiding Unnecessary Danger

Avoid unnecessary danger and don't take silly risks that would jeopardize your life or ministry; instead, use wisdom to avoid compromising situations for Satan is on the prowl to entrap unsuspecting victims (Prov 22:3; Mt 2:12,22; Jn 11:53-54; 1 Pet 5:8). Just as it is unwise to see how close you can walk to the edge of the cliff without falling, so it is with meddling in questionable practices and not living according to the Bible for the ways of the world are opposed to that of God (Jas 4:4; 1 Jn 2:15-17). Pray for His protection; commit your way and future to Him, walk uprightly so whatever happens you are in the center of His will and plan for you. The name of the Lord provides protection and safety (Prov 18:10). God, who never sleeps, is watching over us, His angels will guard us in all our ways (Ps 91:11, 121:3). David said, "When walking through the darkest valleys, I will fear no evil for you are with me" (Ps 23:4, 27:3).

Accidents and misfortunes are a part of this life, with persecution for being a Christian increasingly resulting in martyrdom. Whatever happens, maintain your confidence and trust in God (Heb 10:35). "In God I will trust; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?" (Ps 57:11).

My eternity is secure in you

Jesus said, don't fear man who can only take your life, they can't affect your eternal destiny (Lk 12:4,5). The Jewish men who were about to be thrown into the fire said, we believe God will deliver us, but even if He doesn't we will still be committed to Him (Dan 3:17-18). Even though Paul experienced many dangers he said none of these can keep us from knowing the love of God (Rom 8:35; 2 Cor 11:23-26).

Warning Others of Eternal Danger

As Christians, we are to warn the lost of the impending danger and eternal torment that awaits all who do not know Jesus as Saviour, yet often they are unaware of the impending danger of facing eternity with no recourse to reconsider their rejection of Christ's offer of salvation or their true condition with death occurring instantly for some, with no opportunity to put matters right with God (Ezek 33:1-9; Mt 24:37-39; Rev 3:17).

Don't be caught unprepared for eternity?

The Bible speaks of those who honoured God with their lips but they have no love for Him at all (Mk 7:6). They gave an outward worthless impression, for unless our actions backup our words we are being hypocrites (Jn 14:15; Jas 1:22). Jesus said there will be people who think they should be admitted into heaven, yet will be excluded because their hearts were not right with God (Mt 7:21-23).

Reflection and Application:

How can you practice wisdom in avoiding unnecessary physical and spiritual dangers in your daily life?
What fears do you need to surrender to God, trusting in His eternal protection?
Who in your life needs to be warned about the eternal danger of rejecting Christ?
Are your actions consistent with your profession of faith, or do you need to address areas of hypocrisy?