They were glossy black with an hourglass-shaped red marking on their abdomen, and they were crawling all over their web, perfectly delighted by the hot summer Arizona sun. Some were big and fat, others were small and thin. It was clearly a nest, and they were clearly unwelcome! Why? Because this nest of Black Widow spiders was in our front step!

“Honey we have new neighbours!”

As I had anticipated, my wife was not impressed. We generally welcome neighbours, of all types and kinds, but with this particular kind of neighbour, total removal was the only option and we immediately began to plan their demise. But how?

Our usual habit with neighbours of the multiple leg variety is to catch them under a cup and move them to “safer” ground. Early in our discussion however, we voted against this plan. These little buggers were renowned for their neurotoxic venom. The red marking on their underside was a clear warning to anyone who had the intention of approaching them. Any intruder would NOT be welcomed with open arms!

How can you deal with creatures such like these?

We finally realized that there was only one option: Total annihilation! As mean as it sounds, we purchased a good insecticide spray and used it on the nest. Then we removed what remained with a broom. It’s amazing how handy such tools can be when needed!

So often we find unwelcome intruders in our lives. These can appear as flash news. Have you ever noticed how depressing the daily news can be? And then there is also the completely unwanted phone calls in the middle of the night: “I’m sorry to tell you, but your father just passed away.” And then there’s the unforeseen, innocent snares that are laid for the sole purpose of trapping us in merciless addictions.

It is interesting that though these types of things are snares to most people, they appear as opportunities to others. It is all a matter of perspective! Are you geared to trusting God and growing closer to Him no matter the circumstances? Or do you blame Him for events caused by the enemy himself?

Ask yourself this: “Does a bird fall into a trap on the ground where no snare has been set? Does a trap spring up from the earth when there is nothing to catch?” (Amos 3:5 NIV) Instead of focusing on your dire circumstances, why not take the advice of Col. 4:5: “Make the most of every opportunity.” (The Message)

Let’s remember to look at anything with God’s perspective. This will help us to avoid falling in the snare of self-pity!

“Don’t shuffle along, eyes to the ground, absorbed with the things right in front of you. Look up, and be alert to what is going on around Christ – that’s where the action is. See things from his perspective.” (Col 3:2 The Message)

Another time one of our neighbours was visited by a venominous snake. But that’s another story! How are you facing your black widows of your day?

Rob Chaffart