Anorexics withhold, bulimics purge, and compulsive over eaters gorge. Although each of these disorders manifest differently, these negative behaviors become a means for coping with difficult emotions, stress, and anxiety. Out of control feelings can cause some of us to head down a path of self-destruction. Before we know it we’re trapped in bondage, unable to break free.
In her book I’m Beautiful? Why Can’t I See It?, Kimberly Davidson shares a vivid illustration of becoming trapped.
“Villagers that live in the forests and mountains of India catch monkeys by carving pots with necks as long as a monkeys arm and a base large enough for a banana. The monkeys can’t wait to retrieve their prize. They put their arms down the neck of the jar until they have the banana tightly grasped. However, they can’t pull it through the narrow neck. So they sit holding their prize tightly for fear of losing it. Eventually, the monkey becomes immobilized, and they’re simple pickings for the villagers.”
I think one of the reasons we fear letting go is because we are not entirely convinced that God will adequately manage what we hand over to Him. In other words, we don’t trust Him. Trust isn’t something that happens overnight. It’s built over time. God knows exactly why we have trust issues. He is not intimidated by our lack of trust. Saddened—yes. Intimidated—no.
When I minister to women, I assure them that God wants to earn their trust. I encourage them to give just one piece of their disorder over to Him and see what He does with it. Maybe you aren’t ready to hand everything over to God, but could you try giving Him just a small piece? Try eating a ‘fear food’ today (something you are afraid to eat because you think it will make you fat), or keep that meal down this time.
Perhaps your struggle is something other than food. These same principles can be applied to any stronghold you are facing.
What is it that you’re holding so tightly? Perhaps like the monkeys, you’re immobilized with fear, unable to let go. God wants to help, but He continues to respect our free will. He will not force us to let go.
“Submit to God and be at peace with him; in this way prosperity will come to you.” (Job 22:21)
Two choices are in front of you. One leads to freedom, the other leads to deeper bondage. Remember the monkeys. Failure to let go led to their capture.
Freedom or bondage—the choice is ours.
“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” (Galatians 5:1)
