Truett burst through the front door with exciting news one afternoon, anxious to share his latest find. “Mom! I found a praying mantis. Can you believe it! They’re pretty rare around here.”

 

It was certainly one of the biggest bugs they’d seen in the fields around their home. The beautiful emerald green insect crawled from hand to hand, curious about its new environment.

 

Considered a symbol of peace, contemplation, and prayer, the word “mantis” in Greek literally means prophet or seer. The prayerful pose we recognize in these insects is not actual prayer or meditation of course, but a pose designed to help them capture prey. The “prayers” of this fascinating creature are actually part of an intricately designed plan for their survival.

 

Matthew 6:33 says, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”

 

There are many things in this life that distract us from seeking what matters most. Technology. Financial stress. Family discord. Health concerns. Sin. The miraculous thing is when we quiet our hearts and minds and seek God first, He helps us clear away the clutter of this world, and blesses us with the things we need to take the next right step. With God, we can not only survive but thrive. 

 

How poetic that a prayerful pose is a matter of survival for us as believers, too.

 

Let’s pray.

 

Lord, your incredible creation is filled with reminders to turn to you in all things. Thank you for that. Amen.