Sister Spider

Some people have a fear of spiders and you have to admit they do not look very attractive - unless you are another spider, I suppose. And they have a habit of just appearing, silently without warning where you least expect them. But perhaps it is a fear of being tangled up in the web that frightens people most. Nevertheless, like us, they are God’s creatures, made by God to fulfil His purpose on this earth.

So what lesson can Sister Spider teach us? Well several, actually. Firstly, consider the sheer skill involved in the design and building of the intricate and beautiful web that she weaves. For such a tiny creature, having what we humans would describe as limited intelligence to be able to do that is, I think, pretty amazing. What is even more amazing is that God should have given this tiny, unattractive creature such skills. Then, have you noticed how if her web does not reach the point she intended she will try again and again until it does? We could all do well to remember her persistence, her diligence and her perseverance. But perhaps the most important lesson she has for us is patience. Having spun her web, she will sit patiently waiting for her prey to become ensnared in her net.  How often do we wish we had her patience! Certainly the world today seems to be revolving at an ever increasing pace so that we may feel we are going round in circles and getting nowhere. There are deadlines to meet, meetings to attend, so much to do; how are we to fit everything into the twenty four hours of the day? And you want me to set aside a time for prayer too? Really, I just do not have the time!

But remember that God has provided her with the skills and ability she needs to perform her part in the chain of life. In the same way God has provided us with the skills to perform the tasks He has set down for us. Skills which may need patience but remember that tiny creature weaving her web and then ‘Go and do thou likewise’. Luke 10:37 KJV

​And one last thing; despite what you may feel about spiders, in her own way Sister Spider also displays the beauty and glory of God’s Creation. Let us then remember that all good things come from God and in His good time.