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Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. ~1 Peter 5:7
Do not get caught in the monkey trap!
Have you ever heard that statement before?
The statement originates from a very simple technique to catch monkeys. Natives from parts of South America, Africa, and Asia would first hollow out a gourd, leaving the opening just large enough for a monkey to slip their hand and arm through. Then they place a delicious treat inside the gourd, add extra weight to it with sand or pebbles, and place the gourd somewhere the monkey will find it.
The unsuspecting monkey, completely unaware of the trap, would smell the delightful treat and reach into the gourd to grab it. The opening, which is just big enough for the monkey’s hand, is too small to allow its clenched fist to pass back through. No matter how much the monkey pulls, the monkey cannot withdraw his treat-filled hand.
Unfortunately, the greedy monkey tries to carry off the gourd, but of course, it’s weighted down. Therefore, the monkey struggles, cries, screams, yanks, and jerks until it is exhausted and broken-spirited. Consequently, when the natives come back, they find a tired and frustrated monkey caught by his own fist.
Because the monkey was not wise enough to let go of the treat, the natives collect the monkey, and presumably, head back home to have fresh monkey meat cooked in fresh tomato sauce with chili peppers and onions.
It is easy for us to see how foolish it is to keep holding on to something that really does not have any value, but as Christians, we do it all the time. We hold onto past situations that do not serve us well, creating a trap for ourselves. We hold onto mistakes, anger, resentment, pride, embarrassments, and material things that hold no value. We spend our time replaying situations in our mind where someone hurt us, abused us, or disappointed us, all the while giving up the freedom and victory God has in store for us.
If you want God’s best for you, you will have to:
Let go of the old and who you used to be, so that you can embrace the new and who God wants you to be.
Leave the past in the past. Do not get trapped because you are not willing to reposition yourself and your thinking. You serve a God that is mighty and strong, and able to do more than we could ever ask or hope. Therefore, open your mind and your hands so you will be free to hold the blessings of God.
Cream and Sugar...
Say this Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father,
Today I’m making the decision to trust you with my circumstances. I am letting go of all the pain, hurt, and worry, regardless of how things may feel or appear. I’m ready to take the leap of faith because I know that all things work together for the good of those who love You and are called according to Your purpose. Thank you for giving me the victory. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.
Day 9
