Articles
Won In The Summer
The National Geographic magazine ran an article about the Alaskan bull moose.
The males of the species battle for dominance during the Fall breeding season, literally
going head-to-head with antlers crunching together as they collide. Often the antlers, their only
weapon, are broken. That ensures defeat. The heftiest moose, with the largest and strongest
antlers, triumphs.
Therefore, the battle fought in the Fall is really won during the Summer, when the moose
eat continually. The one that consumes the best diet for growing antlers and gaining weight will
be the heavyweight in the fight. Those that eat inadequately sport weaker antlers and less bulk.
Spiritual battles await us. Satan will choose a season to attack. “Be sober, be watchful:
your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walks about, seeking whom he may devour” (1 Peter
5:8).
Will we be victorious, or will we fall? Much depends on what we do now —before the
wars begin. “But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself” (Daniel 1:8).
“Take up the shield of faith, where with you shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the evil
one” (Eph. 6:16). Remember the bull moose principle: enduring faith, strength, and wisdom for
trials are best developed before they are needed.
“How can a young man keep his way pure? By keeping it according to Your word. With
all my heart I have sought You, do not let me wander from Your commandments. Your word I
have treasured in my heart, that I may not sin against You” (Psalms 119:9-11).
~Bruce Howell, Glad Tidings, Good Things Jacksonville church of Christ, Jacksonville, AL
