Isolation is a dangerous thing.

My first trip to the African Savannah was 37 years ago. A highlight of my trip was having the privilege of going on Safari.
I have since returned many times to that country and over the years I have seen a pattern emerge. Whether large or small, fast or slow, it is the animals that are separated from their herd that fall prey to predators. The old adage that there is safety and strength in numbers is a true statement.
Viewing God’s glorious creation through binoculars or the lens of a camera has taught me some valuable lessons on isolation.

• First, we are all part of the same herd so we need to love one another. John 23:34 “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.”

• You and your herd have an enemy. 1 Peter 5:8 “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.

• We were not meant to live life without our herd. We need each other to accomplish what God has called us to do. Ecclesiastes 4:9,10 “Two are better than one. because they have a good return for their labor: if either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.”

• Fighting among the herd never ends well. We are all working toward the same goal so we need to encourage and pray for each other. Hebrews 10:24-25 “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”

• Unlike the wilds of the Savannah, our Herd has a Good Shepherd. You are never alone. Deuteronomy 31:6 “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”

You’ve Got this because He’s got you.