Warning signs are a part of the human existence. Even back before the Weather Bureau, people had warning signs about impending weather changes (see Matt. 16:2-3 LBX). As long as people have traveled—even when they did it on trails—there were warning signs to protect against potential dangers. Today, medical experts keep us informed about signs of unexpected health problems, the highways are full of signs, the labels on jars and containers, and a host of other things give us information about what to do to avoid trouble.

The coming holidays have great potential for good. They emphasize the joy of giving. They even turn people’s thoughts back to Jesus, to who, sadly, they pay only scant attention the rest of the year. The holidays accentuate friendships and bring families back together. They’re just good for lots of things. But, as is the case with most good things, there are potential dangers there, too.

Be careful about your time. There is never a time when we are dismissed from our privileges and obligations as Christians. Let’s not get so wrapped up (‘scuse the pun) in the things of the season that we forget about God.

Be careful about your thoughts. It is well and right that we should rejoice in the day of prosperity (Eccl. 7:14 LBX). Let’s pause during the season and give thanksgiving to God for our blessings—and there are many.

Be careful about your citizenship. Remember where you’re headed. We’re just pilgrims here (1 Pet. 2:11 LBX) and we must not become so infatuated with this strange land that we forget where we’re going. We’re not there yet.

The Devil is active. He’ll use whatever dastardly means he can to attract us. He’d like us to ignore even these warning signs. We should enjoy the season. It’s right and good that we do so. But we must be warned about what is our first mission (Matt. 6:33 LBX).