Matthew 10:16

“But ask the beasts, and they will teach you; the birds of the heavens, and they will tell you... and the fish of the sea will declare to you. Who among all these does not know that the hand of the Lord has done this?” (Job 12:7, 8b, 9).

As we read about different animals in the Bible, we see that God made animals for us to learn from them many great and valuable lessons in life. Animals have distinct characteristics that can show us how humans should behave.

Jesus taught truths using these animals in the form of similes.

“Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves” (Matthew 10:16).

We observe from the characteristics of these animals, that sheep are vulnerable to predators, such as wolves. The sheep are without protection. Wolves are hunters on the prowl. They will devour innocent sheep in a heartbeat. Serpents are considered wise with sly and cunning maneuvers. Snakes will move slowly through new territory. Usually, they stay concealed finding a place to hide.

Doves were designed with innocent, meek, and gentle qualities. They are birds known to be non-threatening. When Jesus sent his disciples out to teach the world, He compared them to sheep amid wolves. Jesus knew there would be people out there, who would attack them for their proclaimed message.

How does a person become wise as a serpent and innocent as a dove? It does sound as if the two do not mix. To be wise is to be practical, prudent, and discerning regarding relationships.