Wednesday, May 1st, 2013.  Today's cherished Nugget from guest blogger Pastor Bill.

The ancient sport of falconry employed trained hawks in the chase of wild game. When the “educated predator” was allowed to fly, however, it often rose too high for human eyes to see it against the blue sky. It was therefore not uncommon to carry a small caged bird called a shrike. The hunter could then easily tell where his hawk was located by watching the antics of the little creature in front of him, for it instinctively feared the falcon and always cocked its head to keep it in view. The Christian desperately needs the sensitivity and perception of the shrike when it comes to the detection of his spiritual adversary! Satan, the prince of the power of the air, dwells in high places and is a master deceiver. He often subtly camouflages himself against the beautiful background of attractive people and exciting activities. His presence is hard to detect if we are not on guard.

The writer of 1Peter 5:8 reminds us to, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.”

God, Help us to keep away distractions that would keep us from having the spiritual discernment that might cause us to be led away from You. Amen.
In GOD we Trust!