DEATH ZONE

In 2019, a climber saw his last sunrise from the peak of Mount Everest. He survived the dangerous climb, but the high altitude squeezed his heart, and he died on the way back down. One medical expert warns climbers not to think of the summit as their journey’s end. They must get up and down quickly, remembering “they’re in the Death Zone.”

David survived his dangerous climb to the top. He killed lions and bears, defeated Goliath, dodged Saul’s spear and army, and conquered Philistines and Ammonites to become king.

But David forgot he was in the death zone. At the peak of his success, as “the Lord gave David victory wherever he went” (2 SAMUEL 8:6), he committed adultery and murder. His mistake? He stayed on the mountaintop. When his army set out for new challenges, he “remained in Jerusalem” (11:1). David once had volunteered to fight Goliath; now he relaxed in the victory and comforts of his triumphs.

It’s hard to stay grounded when everyone, including God, says you’re special (7:11-16). If we’ve done well at something, let’s celebrate it and thank God, giving Him the praise. And let’s remember that in the best moments of our lives we’re also in the Death Zone. If we stay there too long, we may well get comfortable with feeling that good and start making very selfish choices to keep the feeling going.

Let’s remember to come down the mountain, looking for the next challenge or opportunity God has planned for us (EPHESIANS 2:10).

Thinking it over . . .

Are you climbing a mountain or near the top? How can you avoid the dangers that come with doing well?