John 10:12 But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep.
There are many spiritual lessons that can be learned from wolves which can instruct and caution us as to the methods that are often used by the enemy of souls to entrap and destroy the unwary, or the careless. In hunting their prey, wolves actually use many of the same methods satan uses, prominent among which is the principle of isolation. As wolves hunt for wild game, they do not go after the entire herd, but they rather try to isolate one from the pack, so that they can focus their efforts in destroying that one.
They first begin by searching for the weakest one, and then they collaborate in diverting that one from the entire herd. The devil often uses this method, and that's one of the reasons why Jesus sent out the disciples two by two, so that they could help each other in times of difficulty, should the necessity arise. Let's read:
Mark 6:7 And he called unto him the twelve, and began to send them forth by two and two; and gave them power over unclean spirits; 12 And they went out, and preached that men should repent. 13 And they cast out many devils, and anointed with oil many that were sick, and healed them.
There are very practical and valid reasons for this method of sending disciples forth two by two, as implemented by Christ, for the principle of isolation can potentially put the human agent at greater risk, than if he had the support of a like- minded believer. It's not to say that we should depend upon the arm of flesh for our energy and impetus, but the fact is that we are social beings, and as such we gain courage, fortitude, and energy from each other as we work towards a common goal. This fact can be clearly seen in the extra motivation most people get when exercising with others in the same gym for the same common goal of good health and fitness. When this principle is adopted in the spiritual realm, it has the effect of insulating us from the determined assaults of the enemy. Let's read:
Ecclesiastes 4:9 Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. 10 For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up.
This counsel is especially important to us, in lieu of the dire warning of the clandestine activities of spiritual wolves in our day, who are not only bent on our destruction, but are scheduled to ramp up their assaults significantly, as we near the close of earth's history. Let's read:
Acts 20:29 For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. 30 Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them. 31 Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.
The time spoken of here has fully come, for indeed there are many prominent religious leaders who are now speaking perverse things, contrary to the law of God and contrary to sound doctrine, that would make the apostles turn in their graves, if they could. And the same principle of isolation is also being implemented, in which the true followers of Christ, are being isolated form the mainstream, because of their peculiar views and doctrines that are based on the Bible, and the Bible alone. It has now become very unpopular to speak against certain moral issues that have taken deep root in our society, and those who dare to stand up for right are being isolated more and more as the multitudes clamor for evil.
During these times of difficulty it is more important than ever for true Christians to present to the world a united front, so that the scriptural principles God has given to the world may not become lost in a maze of immorality and godlessness. The agencies of evil may try to isolate, but if we stand firmly together under the banner of truth and righteousness, God will strengthen us to meet the emergency, and the spiritual wolves will be forced into retreat, according to the promises made to us by Christ Himself. Let's read:
31 What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? 32 He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? 33 Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth. 37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.
As we enter the final days of earth's history, as the advocates of truth and righteousness are becoming more and more isolated, let us remember to pray together, to work together, and to help each other on the straight and narrow pathway, for The God of heaven is cognizant of the hurdles we face, and has promised to keep us if we encourage and help each other in the fulfillment of the gospel commission. We therefore end with a passage of scripture that calls on us to edify and build up our fellow- believers, for the promises of God to the faithful, will be fulfilled in due season. Let's read:
Malachi 3:16 Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another: and the Lord hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon his name. 17 And they shall be mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him.
May God add His blessing to the reading and doing of His every word. God bless!