"Exile is separation from anything that separates us from God" - Saint John Climacus
God keeps calling us to leave the familiar for the unfamiliar. But our desire for comfort, security, and pleasure keeps us from pursuing this deeper life in Christ of simplicity and sacrifice. We forget we are strangers in a foreign land and we are to leave the far country behind and come home to God. Before we try to save others, we need to save ourselves first. Take care of your own soul and then you will be able to take care of other souls.
The prophet Jeremiah repeated warns against backsliding. Adam and Eve were exiled against their will but we choose willingly to be an exile for God. Guard your life, especially against lust and sexual immorality. Don't be deceived that you can look as long as you don't touch. We deceive ourselves if we think we can draw near to temptation and not get burned by it. Protect your soul and give no opportunity to the Devil. Separate yourself from anything that is taking your attention away from God and draw closer to God in spiritual meditation on God's Word through prayer.
John especially warns novices of dreams that may be induced by demons. Don't put your trust in dreams for dreams can lead one astray. Even though it is true that demons can seduce and deceive us, not all dreams are bad or from the Devil. Often in Scripture we see God giving heaven sent dreams to his children. Dreams and visions are an invaluable way God directs and orders the affairs of people. The test of a true dream from heaven is does it lead you closer to the throne room of heaven and a deeper love for God and His ways?
Dreams and visions are powerful ways which God continues to speak to people today but John Climacus warnings still stand. The enemy wants to sow bad seed even in our dreams so dreams must be tested by the Word of God, God's holy presence within us, as well as other spiritual minded people and the Christian community of faith. "Beloved, do not believe every spirit (prophesy or dream), but test the spirits, whether they are of God (1 John 4:1).
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