It takes a rare or unique combination of characteristics to be a servant of the Lord. These traits are not always what the world would expect a faithful servant to be. The Lord Jesus, in speaking to his disciples, made an unusual statement in describing the disciples as He sent them forth to serve.
“Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves; be ye therefore wise as serpents and harmless as doves. But beware of men.” (Matthew 10:16-17)
The first thing to ponder about our Lord’s description is that He did not say the disciples were serpents and doves, neither did He say they were to be like the Serpent (Devil). In view of these exceptions, why would He tell them to be as serpents and doves? There are literally hundreds of species of snakes. Most of them are not only harmless, but actually are helpful to the balance of nature and the environment. Some people believe that the curse of the garden can really be seen in the looks and movements of a serpent. This, no doubt, is true, but we must keep in mind that nowhere is that awful curse of sin seen more than in man! Some traits of the snake are: prudent, cunning, clever, wise, and avoids danger.
We should ponder each of these to see how they apply to those who would serve God. Taking one of these, that of being wise, will show that our Lord knew how to instruct His servants. Paul, in writing to the Romans, stated:
“For your obedience is come abroad to all men. I am glad therefore on your behalf; but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil.” (Romans 16:19)
The Lord would have His children be careful for their own safety. This was and is necessary because of the wolves that are around us everywhere. Someone has aptly said, “we should imitate the serpent’s wariness, but not his wiliness.” In Philippians 2:15, we read:
“That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world.”
In regard to being “as doves,” it should be noted that this creation of God is a clean creature used sacrificially in God’s plan and purpose. Also, it shows the traits of simplicity, trusting nature, cleanliness, and escapes danger.
It might also be noted that it is the only bird that doesn’t have a gall-bladder. This beautiful bird takes one mate for life! The servant of God should be without falsity, manifesting honesty and integrity before God and man.
It is no accident, but shows that Jesus purposely followed the description of serpents and doves with the statement:
“Beware of men.”
He didn’t want them to go forth in the natural, fleshly, characteristics of men. Why? Man has some universal traits that are not conducive to serving the Lord. There are many traits of man, but suffice it to say the Lord called them “wolves.” Wolves are generally cruel (vs. 17), unnatural (vs. 21), hate goodness (vs. 22), and prey upon the unwary.
The Bible describes just how low man can fall and that often he exhibits the traits of “natural brute beasts” (2 Peter 2:12). Men often act like “animals” without reason. The news is full of gruesome, weird, and filthy crimes of men against all humanity. However, he is at his worst when raving and rebelling against God and His workers. Men might put on “sheep’s clothing” but inwardly they are “ravening wolves.” Paul warns against this in Acts 20:28-31.
In spite of danger and rejection, it is wonderful to be sent forth to serve by and for the Lord. If we act in a manner that pleases Him, we can fully depend on Him to protect us and care for us. Regardless of the danger, let’s continue to love, live and serve for our Wonderful Lord.
“Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.” (Ephesians 4:29)
