As I peeked down the hall stairwell, I saw it too. It was inside our home. And, it was alive and slithering! Surrounded by paved streets, fenced yards, and plenty of neighbors, I had felt a sense of relief. We live in town now… I don’t need to worry about running into snakes anymore. 

I can’t help but realize my own complacency and false sense of security just because things seemed fine. When we lived out in the country, surrounded by wildlife, I was vigilant about praying. I was concerned about the kids running into snakes, especially rattle snakes. I prayed, according to the promises of Psalm 91. I prayed a hedge of protection around our home and the entire property, that the snakes would not be allowed to enter onto our property, that it would be a safe place for us to live, and that we would NEVER have a run in with a snake. When people would show concern or warn me of the possible dangers, I would tell them, they are not allowed here. Period. No surprise, the Lord was Faithful. We NEVER saw one in all the years we lived in rural wooded properties.   

Seeing this snake inside my home has been a good wake up call for me. I have noticed in my own life, that I need to be vigilant in seeking out time with the Lord, especially when things are going well. Praising Him and having a thankful heart is so important! Spending time with the Lord intentionally, without presenting a need or agenda on our part, is just as essential for our growth in Him during the more peaceful seasons of our life. The Lord enjoys our setting aside special time just for Him. He wants us to be purposeful in seeking Him out. Matthew 6:33 says, “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” 

On the other hand, when life presents challenges, pressing into the Lord is magnified in our lives as we seek strength and peace of mind. Being in the Word, looking for that nugget of truth to hang onto, knowing in our hearts that the Lord is with us, and that we are going to get through such tough times is imperative. We might fast and pray, and really search out extra time with the Lord. Our prayer life, as a result, is deepened, along with our relationship in the Lord. Beautiful fruit can come from a life of struggles and tumultuous times. Isaiah 43:19 tells us, “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”

That snake is now outside of our home. But, the memory is imprinted on my mind. I will always remember the shock of seeing it in my hallway. I thank the Lord for His visual reminders that quicken my spirit into realizing just how easy it is to become complacent when things appear to be fine. Pressing into the Lord, especially during the more peaceful seasons in our life, is just as important for our growth and relationship with the Lord. He deserves our praise, adoration, and most importantly, our attention.

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