“I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.” Matthew 10:16
A snake is
wily, evasive, clever in getting out of situations, aware, highly sensitive and
skilled at gaining an advantage. That’s
an important trait for a Christian, much better than being dull, unaware,
unengaged, dumb. A Christian should have
a sharp mind.
A dove is
soft, innocent, wide-eyed, curious, peaceful.
That’s also important for a Christian, rather than being edgy, mean and
hurtful. The dove represents the heart
of a Christian. Christians must think
and plan like a snake, but have the heart of a dove.