The excitement surrounding the news of NFL training camps starting up was quickly subdued following the coordinated response from the players. Some of the biggest stars in the game went on social media to communicate the message that they need an agreement with the league regarding proper safety protocols.

Players returning to the field are putting themselves at risk, so they’re speaking up to the NFL owners about the importance of an effective plan to protect them as well as possible during the coronavirus pandemic.

NFL players and owners can’t ignore the health and safety concerns and must make the necessary changes so football can return and remain the entire season.

As we await the NFL owners’ response to the players’ demands for a safer workplace, we, too, are trying to figure out the best ways to protect ourselves and others from the virus.

In considering the emphasis being placed on our physical health, as followers of Jesus, we also can’t neglect the seriousness of following and implementing “safety protocols” when it comes to sin affecting our spiritual health.

It’s one thing to want to protect ourselves from a virus and avoid situations that put us at greater risk, but do we have the same level of concern for guarding against sin?

Sin wreaks havoc on our lives when we ignore the warnings and don’t take the proper safety measures seriously. We have to plan and prepare for how we’re going to combat the sin that’s threatening to destroy us.

When we receive Jesus’ grace and salvation because of the cross, we no longer face the eternal punishment of death. But as long as we’re still living here in this broken world, we’re battling against sin and the forces of evil.

Thankfully, God gives us His Spirit and power to help us avoid giving into sin. Each day, however, we have to decide to follow Him and His “safety protocols” to avoid unnecessary harm.

Galatians 5:16 (AMP) explains, “But I say, walk habitually in the [Holy] Spirit [seek Him and be responsive to His guidance], and then you will certainly not carry out the desire of the sinful nature [which responds impulsively without regard for God and His precepts].”

With God, we are given the strength, power, and protection needed to remain spiritually healthy. The following verses provide strategy and wisdom for us as we set out to stay safe from the pitfalls of being overtaken by sin:

Proverbs 4:23 (NLT) says, “Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.”

Proverbs 27:12 (AMP) explains, “A prudent man sees evil and hides himself and avoids it, but the naive [who are easily misled] continue on and are punished [by suffering the consequences of sin].”

Today, as we join the NFL players in taking precautions to guard against the coronavirus, let’s be challenged to take sin even more seriously. Let’s walk in the Spirit…guard our hearts…and avoid situations that put us at greater risk.

I’m Bryce Johnson and you can UNPACK that!

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I admit to being worried and concerned about my physical health, but help me be even more aware of my soul’s health. Please give me the strength to avoid sin and forgive me for the sin I’ve allowed into my life. I’m grateful for Your grace, mercy, and love. Thank you for giving me Your Spirit to guide and protect me. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.

1. What personal protocols do you have in place to help you fight against sin?

2. What does it mean to guard your heart?