A SIMPLE SOLUTION TO INDIGESTION
Photo courtesy of Scientific American
Atop the Rock of Gibraltar dwells a colony of Barbary macaque primates. Signs warn tourists not to carry or consume food outdoors, which some choose to ignore. The monkeys quickly hop onto backpacks filled with snacks, and feast on the booty.
Devouring junk food wreaks havoc on the monkeys’ digestive system. But the macaques have discovered a simple solution…eating dirt. According to Sky News, “Scientists believe the dirt helps the monkeys line the gut to stop irritation from foods which are extremely rich in calories, sugar, salt and dairy…The soil also provides bacteria and minerals missing from junk food.” Problem solved. The solution to indigestion.
We can learn a lot from our primate friends who live atop “The Rock.” Often the best solutions are the simplest. The same is true with God’s solutions. The answers to life’s deepest questions aren’t really complicated. “How did we get here?” God made us. “Why am I here?” To honor and obey God. “How do I experience life with God?” Trust in Jesus. “How should I treat others?” Love others as you love yourself. We don’t have to figure out these answers, because our Creator has done it for us.
We think we know what’s best for us, and when we stubbornly choose our own way, and ignore God’s best for us, we end up hurt and confused. God’s solutions may be simple, but they aren’t always easy.
God’s word isn’t designed to solve every problem we encounter. But it empowers us with wisdom to experience a joyful, successful life. Not a “trouble-free life.” That comes in eternity.
In the meantime, learn from the primates. Keep it simple. And if your kids eat too much candy, don’t turn them loose in the garden to consume dirt. Try God’s simple solution: teach them self-control and take away the junk food!
Ponder:
In what ways do you struggle with keeping life simple?
What helps you during those times?
Pursue: For a deeper dive, study Proverbs 3:1-8.
Lord, I trust in the simplicity of your wisdom. In difficult times, help me look to you and not human solutions.
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