“AN OLD INDIAN TALE”

There once was a young Indian boy who was ready to prove that he was man. As a test, he was sent into the wilderness to survive on his own for several days. It was winter, and the nights were bitterly cold. He came upon a poisonous snake, nearly frozen from the frigid temperatures. “Please,” the snake begged, “Let me warm myself under your blanket before I die in this cold.” The young warrior replied, “You are a poisonous snake. If I pick you up, you’ll bite me and I’ll die.” “Oh no!” assured the snake. I promise I will be forever grateful, and no harm will come to you.” The boy thought, then relented and placed the snake against his body under the blankets. As the snake began to warm, he began moving. Then, he coiled and struck – sinking his venom-filled fangs into the young boy. “But you promised you wouldn’t hurt me,” the boy whispered as he lay dying. The snake slithered away, and replied, “You knew what I was when you picked me up.”
Christians can learn from this fable. Satan is a liar and the father of lies (John 8:44). He is in the world deceiving just as he was in the beginning. His tactics are not bold and blatant, but more subtle and deceptive. If you are tempted to pick up pornography, drugs, alcohol, an illicit affair, or gambling – remember this story. The bible tells us:
“… and do not give the devil a foothold.” (Eph. 4:27) “Resist the devil and he will flee from you.” (James 4:7) “Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” (I Peter 5:8) “… and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trip of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will.” (2 Tim. 2:26)
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“IF…”
· A man rocked the boat to see if it would tip. It did.
· A man looked into a gun to see if it was loaded. It was.
· A young girl kept late hours to see if it would really affect her office work. It did.
· A young man tried drinking to see if it would make him behave like a fool. It did.
· A man said, “I’ll ignore Jesus Christ to see if I go to hell.” He did.
(Luke 16:19-31)
“I will tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents that over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent (Luke 15:7).”

Heaven in waiting for you!!!
Copied from Church Newsletter Neelysville, Ohio