CONSIDER THE MILLIPEDE
by Julie Lavender
Millipedes are fascinating to me with their bajillion legs
moving in synchrony. Well, my estimation of leg-count is slightly off, but so
is their nomenclature. The name derives from the Latin definition meaning “thousand
feet.” Scientists have yet to find a
species with 1000 feet – the record holds for a 750-legged one instead.
Millipedes have two pairs of jointed legs per body segment,
and even with that many legs, they are generally a slow-moving critter.
I love to watch them creep along, each leg moving with military
precision in relation to the others. Like a marching army. Those able legs in
formation remind me of that Bible story in 2 Samuel, soon after David was
anointed king of Israel.
The Philistines, not pleased with that announcement,
mobilized their forces to capture David. The first time the Philistines make
their move, David consults God, and the Lord tells him in 2 Samuel 5:19, “Yes,
go ahead, I will certainly hand [the Philistines] over to you.”
The marauding Philistines don’t learn their lesson, and when
they regroup for another attempt on the king’s life, David again seeks guidance
from the Lord. The Lord replies, in verses 23-24: “Do not attack them straight
on. Instead, circle around behind and attack them near the poplar trees. When
you hear a sound like marching feet in the tops of the poplar trees, be on the
alert! That will be the single that the Lord is moving ahead of you to strike
down the Philistine army.”
David does exactly what the Lord said and is victorious.
Oh, what comfort and joy to know that God goes before me,
that His mighty army protects me and leads the way!
My little marching millipedes serve as a reminder of one of
my favorite verses: “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he
will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”
Deuteronomy 31:8 NIV
What about you? Does one of God’s magnificent creations call
to mind a favorite verse? Share it below and join the conversation.
Centi- and milli- pedes always caused me to think of the oars sticking out from a sailing ship making way without wind. Slow, but steady. As I've grown in Christ, I also think of the body of Christ (His people). Whether Christian or millipede, we must move our oars in unison to make progress in life. What a wonderful analogy you've given me to think and meditate on this day Ms. Julie. God's blessings ma'am.
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ReplyDeleteAbsolutely, J.D. - when I watch them walk with all those legs moving in synchronicity it reminds me that only a God in heaven could design such a being that that many legs could all work together to make progress in the right direction. And, you're right - Christians need to have that singular purpose in mind - to walk in such a way to glorify God - and then we can make such progress! Wonderful analogy, J.D. - thanks for sharing!
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