No More Monkey Business!

Some African tribes have learned that greed can be used to trap and catch monkeys. The men carefully cut a hole into the side of a large gourd just big enough for a monkey to insert his open hand into. Then the men carefully hollow out the gourd and put in some favorite monkey food, such as bananas and nuts. Next the hunters tie the trap in a tree branch where the monkeys are known to gather. While the hunters watch from their hiding places, monkeys attracted by the scent of the enticing food soon gather. After much chatter, one monkey will usually reach into the gourd and greedily grasp the food. The problem, of course is that it cannot withdraw its hand without releasing its fistful of food. That is when the hunters move in. If only the animal was willing to let go of his coveted bait he could have his freedom. But, unwilling to do so, he pays the price of being captured. As I read the story above, I was struck with the question; what things in my life am I greedily hanging onto that are going to ultimately lead to my own demise? What innocent traps have Satan laid in my path that I am unwilling to give up? Something for all of us to think about........