The Sensitivity plant, found on Hawaii's Big Island, is named for its delicate reactions to nearby movement, including the wind. It closely resembles grass or weeds and is hard to tell apart unless you're directly over it, as it grows very low to the ground.

As the sun rises in the South Pacific, this plant opens as wide as possible, reaching up toward the warm early morning light. It has a built-in mechanism that causes it to quickly fold itself up and withdraw to avoid potential harm. However, the plant cannot tell the difference between a lawn mower approaching to cut it or a person coming closer to protect it.

Here’s what I mean with the illustration above. We all have a natural mechanism and need to defend ourselves from potential dangers that could hurt us or our loved ones. God provides us with His Word to assist and equip us to identify how the enemy, the devil, attempts to harm us. His Word helps us get ready and stay protected from such threats.

Each morning, I challenge us to look upward regardless of the weather, seeking the Son's warmth, love, protection, and guidance for the day. God has blessed us with sensitivity, but we must stay alert by utilizing the tools He has given us in His Word.

10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. 14 Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. 16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; 17 and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, 18 praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, 19 and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak.  ~ Ephesians 6:10-20

Armor up,

Gene