Outwitting Your Adversaries Pt 3

We look one last time into the classroom regarding the study of the Great Blue.  This time you see our solitary friend standing sentinel-like in shallow water at the margin of a pond or sluggish river.  He is one of America’s largest birds, with a standing height of nearly five feet.  He stands perfectly still, demonstrating a quiet patience that assures him of success.  So still does he stand that the unwary fish and frogs rush to the shadow in the water that he creates by his overwhelming presence.  They are seeking safety and shelter in the dark water surrounding him, totally unaware of their impending doom.

He is as careful and calculating as the most skillful archer.  He strikes with such speed that the eye cannot detect the movement of his spear like beak, as it finds its mark.  He has taught us patience while waiting.  We do well to heed the overarching lessons that God has placed within the confines of nature.  Patience is that virtue that enables you to be content with what you have, while at the same time taking advantage of every opportunity to advance.  It carries with it no hidden agenda, but believes that all things are possible to him who believes.  Forgetting those things that are behind, and pressing on, become life’s motto.  

The next time that you see a great blue heron, either in painted form or in the landscape of our countryside, let it be a reminder to persevere.  Never give up doing what is right and always be on your guard.  Do not merely guard those areas that you perceive are your weaknesses.  That is altogether obvious to your adversary as well.  It is your strengths that you are likely to relax your guard on, having trusted them to your own ingenuity.  It is here that we must double the guard.  The enemy delights to penetrate our strongest fortifications.  The great blue heron was most vigilant in his known strengths, making it nearly impossible for danger to get to close.  Post the guard and then patiently wait, for your expectation is from God.

Pastor Mike