Snake Proof Boots

A friend recently gave my son a pair of boots. However, these are not just ordinary boots. These are snake proof, water resistant hunting boots. My son Brayden enjoys hunting. I also enjoy hunting, but I especially enjoy being with him. Although we are relatively new to the sport, we feel that we are learning a lot as we go. After a few hunting trips which required us to walk through some heavy brush, I decided I needed some boots for myself. Knowing that my son's feet are still growing I rationalized the idea by saying, "I'll buy a pair of snake proof boots for me, and I'll be the one to walk out in the brush to retrieve any downed animal." Well this friend of mine, who by the way treats my son with kindness and respect, heard me talking about my new boots and asked if Brayden had boots. When I said "no," my friend informed me that he had a pair that might just fit my son. So the following week at church, guess what showed up. That's right...the boots. You should have seen the look on Brayden's face and the excitement over this pair of boots.

I am convinced that in our relationships we all need to be like my friend and pass out the equivalent of snake proof, water resistant boots for life. Most days involve people and problems that would like to harm us, and we frequently find ourselves wading through the difficult waters of life. But what if we had a friend that would come along side of us and encourage us, pray for us, pick us up, and even help by protecting us? Then again, what if we were a friend like that to someone? The words we speak or don't speak might be a great place to start. God's Word says, "A gentle answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger" (Pro. 15:1). Sometimes it's not what we say but how we say it.

The Son of God is a friend that "sticks closer than a brother" (Pro. 18:24). People are very important to the Savior. He laid down His life because of His love for people. Ask yourself this question, "Today, where will I have the opportunity to think of others first and to somehow demonstrate to them the help and provision of Almighty God?" People all around us are in dangerous territory and sinking in problems and separation from God. How can you and I help?

Today, my son and I spoke briefly about our plans for the next hunt. I thank God for the times we have to hunt and more importantly just to be together. Brayden and I are also thankful for his new snake proof, water resistant boots, but even greater is our thankfulness to God for a friend whose words and actions bring blessing and encouragement into our lives.