In the mid-1990s, wolves were reintroduced from Canada down into Montana and Idaho. Their killings and the damage they cause remain significant for ranchers, who primarily face the loss of cattle, sheep, and pets. Millions of dollars have been spent on deterrents, only to be outsmarted by the wolves. Non-lethal methods do not work long-term, yet many “pro-wolf” advocates refuse to face this reality. Under federal protection, wolves that were observed attacking livestock can be legally shot in several states—but if they are not caught in the act, the damage is already done.

In 1980, Jan and I attended a school of ministry at Faith Center in Eugene, Oregon. Our pastor, Roy Hicks Jr., taught on the sobering subject of wolves in sheep’s clothing within the Church. A wolf-spirit is a predator that infiltrates the flock and scatters or devours those we have been assigned to care for.

Every leader—whether a parent, teacher, business leader, or state or federal official—has a mandate to “know the state of their flocks” and put their heart into caring for them (Proverbs 27:23).

It has been my experience that every wise and knowledgeable leader I have met has been formed by humility. That humility comes from refusing to remain naïve, ignorant, indecisive, or trapped by repeated wrong decisions. A predator can masquerade as an angel of light. It is a hard reality to watch when someone we love is taken out. It is also heartbreaking if we failed to stay alert and give warning of the danger of a predator (see 2 Corinthians 11:14).

Leaders anointed with wisdom will restore law and order, safety and stability to a family, a faith community, a business, or a nation. Implementing good governance is necessary. God trains us to judge what is just and right. His government and peace increase when we invite the Lord  to bring order and establish His divine authority (see Proverbs 28:2; Isaiah 9:7; 33:22).

God’s judgment is the application of what is just and true. Depending on motives and actions, His judgment may be favorable or unfavorable. When we expose and judge the fruit of a deceiver or a manipulator, God’s justice becomes an act of love expressed as severe mercy.

Swift justice is needed when those in our care are being gnawed on, mauled, or ripped apart. We have been given divine weapons for spiritual warfare to deal decisively with a wolf—the sooner, the better.