According to Britannica Dictionary, a trap is something that is used or done to stop or capture someone. It is generally used to catch criminals and is known as entrapment. Sadly, the world is full of traps, so believers of the faith, be careful not to become prey. The Bible often speaks about traps in various ways. They are commonly referred to as “snares.” “But watch yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life, and that day come upon you suddenly like a trap” (Luke 21:34 ESV). Comparison, doubt, and fear are three of these traps of which Christians need to be very mindful. Remain vigilant, cautious, and keep your prayer life in check, or else you will get caught in these and other traps that the enemy has set for you. The trap of comparison can be very dangerous. Be who God has created you to be, and don’t give the world the satisfaction of comparing yourself to others. The Word declares in Galatians 6:4-5 (ESV), “But let each one test his own work, and then his reason to boast will be in himself alone and not in his neighbor. For each will have to bear his own load.” “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken,” protested author Oscar Wilde!
Playwright William Shakespeare said, “Our doubts are traitors, and make us lose the good we oft might win, by fearing to attempt.” This trap called doubt can be crippling and can cause you to live a life of fear if you’re not careful. Doubt is the absence of faith and a trap that can lead you astray from your journey to success. The Word refers to one who doubts as double-minded and unstable. Therefore, feed your faith and starve your doubts.
Fear, better known as a trap of paralysis, can cause you to merely exist instead of live. God grants us new mercies each day and expects for us to live life to the fullest. Yes, COVID had such a devastating effect that it paralyzed the world temporarily. Sadly, some people are still caught in the trap of fear of this dreadful illness to the point that they are so afraid to do anything. Then what does the Word say about this? “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7). Therefore, try working toward freeing your mind of this trap.
As you can see, the traps of comparison, doubt, and fear can cause all kinds of problems and will thwart your desire to live a fruitful life. There is so much out there to enjoy, so please don’t get caught in the evil traps of this world. Always abound in the faith, and never leave home without Him!
