There are a number of variations given on trapping a monkey whether it be with a coconut, a gourd, or some other object with a piece of fruit or some other enticing food placed inside. The concept relies on there being a hole small enough for the monkey’s hand to slip inside, but too small for the hand clutching the food to be pulled back out. So desiring the food, the monkey is captured because it won’t release its grasp.
What is it we are clinging to in life? Are we holding tightly to something we desire that could end up trapping us or to that which will aid our life journey?
One of the psalmists wrote. . .
“(31) I cling to your testimonies, O Lord; let me not be put to shame!” (Psalm 119:31 ESV)
We could be shamed by some things we would choose to be drawn into and to which we might cling. There is so much in the world working to entice us away from God and His Will. Remembering enticement relates to our own desires (i.e. James 1:14), we must remain mindful of what our heart’s desire is truly drawing us toward! To cling to the testimony of God’s Word is not a trap, but is that which provides a stable foundation for living life and security in keeping us on the path leading to eternal life.
Reminding Christians at Corinth what he had taught them as core to the Gospel message (1 Corinthians 15:3-4), Paul began by stating. . .
“(1)Now I would remind you, brothers, of the gospel I preached to you, which you received, in which you stand, (2) and by which you are being saved, if you hold fast to the word I preached to you — unless you believed in vain.” (1 Corinthians 15:1-2 ESV)
What are we clinging or holding to? Jesus assured that anyone who keeps His word will never see death. (John 8:51) That is the assurance of eternal life in Him! Therefore, let us continue “holding fast to the word of life” (Philippians 2:16) as we press on in the steadfast hope it leads us in. Letting go of worldly desires (note Colossians 3:5) may we continue clinging to the word of life and the hope that is ours in Christ!
Have a great day CLINGING TO CERTAINTY IN CHRIST!
Carl
———————–
(“teEn-MAIL” is sent out daily by Carl Hanson, preacher for the Church of Christ in Port Townsend, Washington, USA, located at 230 A Street, Port Townsend, WA 98368. Come visit us if in the area. www.porttownsendchurchofchrist.org)
