LEARNING FROM PUSSY

C-a-t is one of the first words we learn, and cats can teach us a lot! How soft are pussy's paws but how sharp his hidden claws! Temptations from Satan also creep up softly then suddenly he pounces and catches us unawares. St. Peter warns us to, "Be sober, be vigilant, because your adversary the Devil walks about like a roaring lion (a big cat!) seeking whom he may devour." [ 1 Peter 5:8 ] We must therefore resist him like Jesus did, saying, "Get thee behind me Satan." [ Matthew 4:10 ]

Cats never stop cleaning themselves and we too are continually defiled by sinful thoughts, words and deeds. We should therefore give ourselves 'a good licking' and confess our sins frequently to God so that He can cleanse us from our sins. [ 1 John 1:8-9 ]

A cat can walk safely along the top of a wall covered with broken glass. St. Paul says we too should "walk circumspectly" along the jagged paths of life. [ Ephesians 5:15 ] The Greek word used here means accurately or carefully, like a cat. If we can say in our hearts, "The Lord is my shepherd" and follow Him closely, He will lead us in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake. It's no joy to any shepherd if his sheep fall and get hurt.

We once had a cat with long fur which we combed regularly to prevent it getting knotted. Despite our endeavours it did get tangled so when we got out the big comb she protested loudly! Jokingly I would quote this Scripture to her, "No discipline seems pleasant at the time. Later on however it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who allow themselves to be trained by it." [ Hebrews 12:11 ] Fluffy never took any notice of these pearls of wisdom but then neither do many humans!