How the Seven Laws of the Wild Apply to the Christian Faith

During my travels through Botswana and South Africa in July 2024, I had the privilege of exploring safari lodges and learning from knowledgeable guides. At one of the properties, Londolozi, a renowned game reserve in the Sabi Sands, the guides shared with me the "Seven Laws of the Wild." These “laws” are essential principles for survival in the wilderness. As I have learned about them, the Lord has instructed me that just as these laws guide behavior in the wild, our spiritual journey with the Lord demands a similar level of alertness. As 1 Peter 5:8 reminds us, “Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” Reflecting on these laws alongside Biblical teachings can offer profound insights into how we navigate the challenges of life.

The Seven Laws of the Wild:

1. Always Be Awake, Alert, and Aware

2. See Before You Are Seen and Hear Before You Are Heard

3. Assume Nothing, Expect Everything

4. Be Aware of Yourself and Be Aware of Others

5. Avoid Unnecessary Conflict

6. Know What You Are Protecting

7. Be Kind, Leave Your Ego Behind

Always Be Awake, Alert, and Aware

Just as prey must stay alert to avoid predators, we must remain spiritually vigilant to resist temptation and stay firm in Christ while in this broken world. By continually watching and praying, we prepare to face trials, avoid falling into temptation, and eagerly await Christ’s return.

Scripture: Matthew 26:41 - "Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak."

See Before You Are Seen and Hear Before You Are Heard

Spiritual discernment is like having a heightened sense of awareness in the wild. By being perceptive to the Enemy’s schemes, we can avoid falling into sin, cloaking ourselves in the beauty of remaining in Christ.

Scripture: Proverbs 27:12 - "The prudent sees danger and hides himself, but the simple go on and suffer for it."

Assume Nothing, Expect Everything

Just as predators in the wild can strike unexpectedly, we must remain humble and ready. Assuming we are immune to temptation can lead to personal downfall. Thus, we should always be prepared for spiritual warfare and be ready to respond, equipped in the truth of Scriptures and the Word of the Lord.

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 10:12 - "Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall."

Be Aware of Yourself and Be Aware of Others

Understanding our own weaknesses and being mindful of the struggles of others is important for cultivating strong, authentic community and accountability. By being vulnerable, holding one another accountable, and carrying each others’ burdens, we strengthen our collective defense against the Enemy.

Scripture: Galatians 6:1 - "Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted."

Avoid Unnecessary Conflict

In the wild, avoiding unnecessary fights can mean the difference between life and death. Similarly, responding with gentleness rather than harshness can prevent conflicts from escalating, protecting us from division and maintaining unity amongst one another.

Scripture: Proverbs 15:1 - "A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger."

Know What You Are Protecting

Just as wildlife conservationists diligently protect and care for different species in the bush, we must be equally vigilant in safeguarding our hearts and our relationship with the Lord. We must be proactive in nurturing and protecting our inner life, making sure it remains aligned with the God's heart and free from the harmful influences of sin, the world, and the Enemy.

Scripture: Proverbs 4:23 - "Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life."

Be Kind, Leave Your Ego Behind

While in the wild, approaching animals with kindness and humility minimizes the risk of provoking aggression. Respecting their space not only ensures safety but also allows for successful conservation efforts and increases our understanding of wildlife. Humility and kindness are powerful fruits of the Holy Spirit for fighting division and pride, which the Enemy often uses to sow discord. By humbly placing others before ourselves, we become individuals that are formed by the love of Christ and reflect His love amidst the craziness of this world.

Scripture: Philippians 2:3 - "Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves."

Conclusion

Reflecting on these Seven Laws of the Wild and relevant truths from the Word of God, I am reminded that as we disciple under Jesus we must remain alert and intentional. The wild is unforgiving, and so is the spiritual battle we are in against the principalities of the world. Grounding ourselves in the love of Christ and in God’s Word, we can stand firm against the Enemy’s attacks and walk faithfully with Yahweh Elohim—the Lord God. Let us prayerfully stay awake, alert, and aware, always seeking to protect our hearts, live humbly, and spread Christ’s love in a world that desperately needs it.