Foreseeing Danger

The mountain seems to stretch to the sky, yet it can look so accessible. Standing at its base, the novice can stare at Oregon’s Mount Hood and feel bold. Even though the peak rises to a height of more than 11,000 feet, it can seem relatively safe and inviting, and even climbable.

As they ponder this impressive peak, many conclude that it lacks the dangers presented by many other mountains. In fact, the U.S. Forest Service reports that more than 10,000 people a year climb this dormant volcano. Most do so safely.

The problem is that the peak is not as harmless as it might appear. On average there has been one fatality per year; some years there have been more. Most deaths have been the result of falls or cold temperatures. Some may not have died but experienced traumatic incidents. Some have become lost. Some have struggled to safety, needing to be rescued.

The fact is that the dangers are real. The U. S. Forest Service warns interested climbers about the ways they can be prepared and the routes they should take. But the Forest Service also warns that even climbers who take the easiest routes still will need to cross crevasses and avoid falling rocks. The Service warns that climbers could also experience inclement weather. They should be sure to bring the necessary ropes and other technical gear.

The Bible reminds us that we face many types of dangers. Some are physical, but others are spiritual, mental, or emotional. It is important not to approach life blindly but to look ahead, take precautions, be prudent and try to foresee dangers.

In your life, ask God to help you be prepared. Make sure your mind is filled with His Word, and that you stay sensitive to the leading of His Spirit. Make sure you’re a person of prayer, committing every situation to Him, alert to every form of danger you may encounter.