Beware of Dogs

This is usually seen on signs as you walk down a street or ride past homes while driving in a car: Beware of Dogs. The dogs they are speaking of are in the house or somewhere near the property. They are not strays that belong to someone across town or in another community. The sign is referring to dogs that may be right in the back yard.

Often we try to escape evil, but it may be right in the house with us or in the same family, or in our circle of friends. People can be hateful, mischievous, malicious, and jealous, yet call you brother, sister, or friend. Some may claim to have your best interest at heart, yet motives for getting next to you extend beyond what the surface presents. How do you deal with this?

Well, it is quite simple, put up a fence. If there are dogs in the area that may be a danger to you or harmful to your well being, put up a fence. This means creating boundaries that you will not allow them to cross. When people hurt you or “bark” in your direction, stay on your side of the fence because they cannot cross. But when you open the gate, that’s when trouble enters.

I try not to entertain foolishness. I aim to live with the peace of God, which passes all understanding, because it does keep my heart and mind through Christ Jesus. Yes, there are times when situations arise and words are said that may “startle” us, but we have the ability to recompose ourselves and keep it moving in the right direction. Remember, they have no power over you, only the power that you give to them.

"Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of concision,” Philippians 3:2, KJV.

Additional Reference: Philippians 4:7