Watch The Appetite!

The "man-of-war" is an interesting creature of the sea that is often washed ashore by strong winds and waves. It floats on the surface of the sea with its sail-like crest visible above the water's surface, giving no indication of its truly deadly character. It appears like a graceful, iridescent bubble above the water, but underneath trail behind it myriads of poisonous tentacles that can stretch down a hundred or more feet. This creature is assisted in its deadly work by the nomeus (referred to as the shepherd fish) which seems to be immune to the venom of the man-of-war while swimming in and out of the deadly strands. Larger fish seeing an easy catch rush to seize the meal, only to be trapped and paralyzed by the poisonous stings of the man-of-war's tentacles. This then provides a meal for both the nomeus and its deadly host.

The seemingly easy catches or the things of the world that may grab the attention are often not as promising as they might at first appear. We need to be mindful of what we develop an appetite for and where it takes us. Being drawn to the delights and delicacies of this world may put us in an inescapable position of spiritual death and separation from God.

Paul warned. . .
"(17) Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us. (18) For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ. (19) Their end is destruction, THEIR GOD IS THEIR BELLY, and they glory in their shame, WITH MINDS SET ON EARTHLY THINGS." ( Philippians 3:17-19 ESV)

With what are we filling our lives? Is it a worldly appetite we are satisfying or have our mind and desires been set "ON THINGS THAT ARE ABOVE." ( Colossians 3:2) Above the surface some of the things of this world may appear to be no danger, until we find ourselves entangled in the "tentacles" underneath. Rather than being driven by physical desires, may we be motivated by spiritual ones to continue seeking THINGS ABOVE! Maintaining our focus there will keep us moving that direction.

Have a great day MAINTAINING A CRAVING FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS!
Carl

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