If you don’t you are at a very great risk for regret and difficult consequences.

The other day I was reading in my favorite rocking chair while a cool breeze fluttered in through the open window. Cherokee, our German Shepherd, had destroyed the screen one day while trying to get my attention through the window, but I decided that it would be okay to open the window anyway.

I was interrupted by a whoosh near my ear. I jumped up as I realized a confused sparrow had flown through the opening and was frantically circling the room. I called for Nathan and we shut all the living room doors so that the scared bird wouldn’t fly into another area of the house.

We held our breath while we waited to see if he would break anything during his desperate attempts to find the exit.

Finally, I opened the top half of the tall farmhouse window. Making a final pass around the room, our little intruder darted through the opening and escaped to a tall tree. I slammed the window shut and determined not to open it again – no matter how hot it is – until we could replace our much-needed screen.

Why, when we are so careful with somewhat insignificant things like screenless windows, do we leave our heart wide open for all sorts of temptations to fly in? Thoughts turn into beliefs, and beliefs turn into actions.

Before you know it, all the values you hold dear are shattered and only heartache is left.

The wise writer of Proverbs advises, "Let your eyes look straight ahead, fix your gaze directly before you. Make level paths for your feet and take only ways that are firm. Do not swerve to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil."

What sensible and wise ways to guard your heart.

Choose to watch wholesome movies, make appropriate friends, listen to uplifting music, and go to respectable places.

You will lessen the likelihood of a stray temptation flying into your heart. This is the way of wisdom and those who follow it will not be disappointed.

Keep your screens repaired and guard your heart carefully. You never know when a misdirected sparrow might try to fly through your open window.

Sandra Sheridan is a Midwest wife and mother of five. She shares her messages to her children with Farm World. Visit her at www.VersesFromMama.blogspot.com