Faith in the Spider's Web

A spider's web in late August in a nearby field

It was late August. Across this field and on almost every bridge and surface, there were spider webs present. I am not a huge fan of their inhabitants—the spiders themselves—but their artistry is lovely. And one day, as I was studying their intricate masterpieces, the Lord showed them to me in a new light—as an illustration of faith.

He has enabled the spider to spin its web via a flexible yet strong substance. This web is built only as they move, not by staying in one place. The pattern is created as they swing outward and simultaneously release the “thing” He has divinely supplied. This web forms their home. It brings their food. It provides the means for survival, leading them to rely on their Creator. 

Sounds a little like how God’s developing your trust in Him? Faith is not stagnant, even if we are in one place. It is changing. God is always challenging us with what He’s developing in us. And I have noticed that He often requires us to move—with a divinely given sense of trust—before we see His hand or will, displayed. 

Just as the spider must release this silky substance to take its next “step,” the Lord wants us to put our faith forward into action. If we wish to see what God may be working in and through our lives, we must understand that He often weaves an intricate design. He has a blueprint, purpose, and circle that becomes our sphere of influence—but we must trust Him to supply all we need to create beauty wherever we go. We must also believe He is working on every angle to keep us in the center of His Will. 

The silky substance a spider uses to form its web is delicate yet strong. It is woven only when it moves. And it reminds us to stretch out in faith and to be home in the presence of God. 

Please meditate upon these verses about faith: 2 Peter 3:18, 2 Thessalonians 1:3, 2 Corinthians 5:7, 1 Peter 2:2, Galatians 2:20, Matthew 17:20, and 2 Peter 1:5-8

Dear Lord, just as the spider mut move to weave their artistry--let your faith and trust be developed. My simple actions--reading your Word, praying, resting in You. Let these disciplines propel me to love You and others so that I am refined and look closer to Your image each day! Amen.

If faith is stagnant--it will never move, grow, deepen, mature, or develop into God's beautiful design. 

by: deborah goshorn-stenger 2 Pause and Praise Creations ©