A sidewinder does not slither about like other snakes, as his mode of advancement is from a lateral position, giving him the needed mobility to progress at a rapid pace as he seeks out his prey. Ah yes, this viper is cunning indeed. For instead of launching a direct attack upon his victims, he buries himself just beneath the ground\s surface: that sandy terrain whereupon the “unsuspecting” are known to tread. Yet this shrewd serpent knows “short” shall be his wait, as surely another who is less discerning shall come along that he can easily snatch away.
Though it is widely understood that this predator is often lurking along the edges of those stalky patches of grass that litter this desert-like habitat, still many are ‘the naive’ who stumble headlong into his trap, as these gullible creatures are unable to detect the warning signs that danger is present.
Then none should be surprised to find this serpent hidden in close proximity to where his prey is commonly found congregating, as this provides him with the best advantage to pick off the weak and the young. Even still, some who are more adept at knowing his tactics have surely been caught by his venomous fangs. And although both this predator and his prey dwell upon the same plain, he retains a level of dominance that is not naturally born in the weaker of these two species. As such, this viper always seeks to subdue their existence and claim these poor souls as his prize. It would appear, then, that the prey is indeed outmatched by the craftiness of this snake, and therefore, is left without much hope of survival.
However, high above in the heavens looms a winged hunter who has superior qualities to that of the sidewinder and can easily overcome that wily serpent within the grip of his powerful talons. So while it is true that this scaly reptile is not one to be trifled with, as even a brief encounter could bring about deadly consequences (for his bite is meant to be lethal), yet even still does the falcon descend without fear upon this poisonous foe, knowing right where to strike in order to render his opponent defenseless and without the means to retaliate; thus making quick work of his enemy by freeing the grassy oasis, if even for a few moments, from the threat of attack.
Ah then, though this narrative depicts natural occurrences, the underlying meaning is rooted in the spiritual. For the true enemy of “the Church” is still that snake the devil, and as such, believers must be ever on their guard, because he has never ceased trying to repress her presence in the earth.
Then do not take lightly the seriousness of his threat, as he will seek any means to reassert his dominance over your lives. For he baits his traps with temptations that appeal to your fleshly compulsions, which is the reason believers must stop entertaining worldliness as acceptable behavior amongst the brethren. It is this lax attitude that has provided an opening for the enemy to dwell in your midst, and without much effort, snatch the weak-minded away.
Let these words then serve as a warning to you that are accommodating sin in your life. Though I have swooped in and ultimately defeated the enemy, the danger of you falling prey to his evil schemes still remains. Therefore, no longer even flirt with sin, thinking its enticements to be harmless. For suddenly, and seemingly out of nowhere, shall the enemy rise up like a venomous snake and level a poisonous blow that has the potential to destroy your life.
“Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil.” -Ephesians 6:11