The Python and the Chihuahua
What we think about is really important.
In Philippians 4:8, the apostle Paul wrote, "Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy–meditate on these things" (NKJV).
Another translation puts it this way: "Summing it all up, friends, I'd say you'll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious-the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse" (THE MESSAGE).
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The Devil is like a snake
When the Devil comes to us, he comes with subtlety, snake-like, slithering in when you least expect it. People don't always keep their guard up for him either.
I read about a large python that ate a family's dog, a silky terrier-chihuahua crossbreed. The children, ages 5 and 7, watched as the snake finished his meal.
This is sad, but also odd. The local zoo owner, who eventually came and picked up the snake, said, "The family that owned the dog had actually seen it in the dog's bed, which was a sign it was out to get it."
"They should have called me then, but (the snake) got away . . . and came back," he added.
When the Devil comes to us, he comes with subtlety, snake-like, slithering in when you least expect it. People don't always keep their guard up for him either.
I read about a large python that ate a family's dog, a silky terrier-chihuahua crossbreed. The children, ages 5 and 7, watched as the snake finished his meal.
This is sad, but also odd. The local zoo owner, who eventually came and picked up the snake, said, "The family that owned the dog had actually seen it in the dog's bed, which was a sign it was out to get it."
"They should have called me then, but (the snake) got away . . . and came back," he added.
We can be like that with the Devil
He has essentially plopped himself right in our bed, and we pay him no mind. "Oh, he won't be back," we think to ourselves.
But just like that python, he is stalking you! Don't underestimate his power, and don't leave your mind open to his attack.
As a snake, Satan attacked Eve's mind. Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 11:3, "I am afraid, lest as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, your minds should be led astray from the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ" (NASB).
Why? Because it is here in "command central" that we reason, contemplate, and fantasize. Your mind can reach into the past through memories, and into the future through imagination.
Train your brain!
You need to train your mind to think properly and biblically. We read in 2 Corinthians 10:5 that we should cast down "arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ."
Just some things to think about today.
