Ignore the Monkeys
So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. 2 Corinthians 4:18 (NIV)
Not many of us have been unnerved by monkeys which is a good thing because they can get pretty aggressive, especially when hungry. However, we all have had something in our lives that caused us to stop in our tracks uttering, “Oh no!”, whether it is an animal, person or an uncomfortable situation. Mabel Ninan, with All God’s Creatures shares how she was able to overcome her fears.
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When I was in the ninth grade, my mom hired a tutor to help me with math twice a week. Since the tutor lived nearby, I decided to walk to his home. What I saw when I arrived at his two-story house made me weak in the knees. Three or four wild monkeys lined the railing of the stairs that led to the tutor’s residence on the first floor. Did I have to walk past the monkeys to go upstairs?
Growing up in India in the 1980s, I was used to seeing monkeys atop buildings and trees and sometimes walking the streets. We lived alongside stray monkeys as if we had made a live-and let-live contract with their world, keeping our distance from them. But I never ventured close to a monkey. Not knowing what to do, I called out nervously to my tutor, who was also a family friend, “Babu Mama!”
He appeared in the door within a few seconds and understood my predicament. “I know you’re scarred. Trust me, these monkeys are harmless. Keep your eyes on me as you walk up.” I nodded as I rubbed my sweaty palms on my skirt. Not once did I take my eyes off Babu Mama as I took the stairs and safely made it to the top.
Over the years, I have walked through many difficult situations. Heartbreak. Illness. Loss. Even today, when I face challenges that frighten or unsettle me, I can remember to look upon Jesus and divert my gaze away from worldly things. His presence will comfort me and strengthen me as I journey through hard places.
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We can face anything when our eyes are on Jesus!
Dear God, your love and faithfulness toward me are never ending. When troubles overwhelm me, help me to stay focused on Your character and lean on Your help and provision. May I anchor my trust and hope in You. AMEN.