The Praying Mantis

The Praying Mantis

“One day Jesus told His disciples a story to illustrate their need for
constant prayer and to show them that they must never give up.”
Luke 18:1

Having a praying mantis in the church planter has been a rare treat these past three summers, another of the wonders of nature that leaves us in awe of God’s creation. Consider these facts about the praying mantis:

• The praying mantis is the only insect capable of rotating its head a full 180 degrees.
• Despite being only inches long, the mantis’s vision extends an incredible 60 feet!
• The “praying” mantis is so named because its front legs appear to be permanently bent in the kneeling position making it look like this insect is constantly in prayer.
• Its legs are so strong that the mantis’s prey rarely escapes from this voracious eater who consumes everything from other insects and bugs to small frogs and mice.

As you look at one fact after another, you begin to realize that the Lord has hidden special truths in all aspects of His creation, from plants and trees to insects and animals, all for our enjoyment and benefit. Seeing the praying mantis when I come to church every day, (and yes, I look for it every day!), has become a daily reminder of my need to constantly be in prayer, to find the time to be on my knees in prayer to the God who is my all in all. Jesus taught on prayer’s importance and on never giving up as we seek the Lord for our future, for our families and fellow believers, and for the many needs that we face on a daily basis.

But there’s more for us to consider from the praying mantis. You have to wonder if the mantis’s being able to turn its head full circle isn’t a hint of the clarity and spiritual awareness we can walk in when we give ourselves fully to prayer. And what about the praying mantis being able to see far distances? Could it be that the person committed to constant prayer has greater insight into their future than others less determined and dedicated, and, because of that, is less prone to give up when trials and delays arise? And is it possible that, like the praying mantis, the prayer warrior lives a far more victorious, conquering life because of the strength and wisdom gained in that position of prayer after which this amazing insect is named? Maybe, just maybe, there’s more available to each of us through the power of persistent prayer!

God Bless,
Pastor Joe
Gateway Church