Sermon Illustrations

Peace Corps Manual Explains How to Escape from an Anaconda

Pastor Jeff Nichols refers to a book by Gary Oliver called, Raising Kids to Love Jesus, in which he quotes from a U.S. Government Peace Corps manual for volunteers who work in the Amazon jungle. Among other things, this manual explains what to do in case they are attacked by an anaconda, the largest snake in the world. An anaconda can grow up to 35 feet long and weigh between 300 and 400 pounds. What would you do? The answer might surprise you…

1. If you’re attacked by an anaconda, do not run. The snake is faster than you are.

2. Lie flat on the ground. Put your arms tight against your sides, your legs tight against one another.

3. Tuck your chin in.

4. The snake will come and begin to nudge and climb over your body.

5. Do not panic.

6. After the snake has examined you, it will begin to swallow you from the feet end-always the feet end. Permit the snake to swallow your feet and ankles. Do not panic.

7. The snake will now begin to suck your legs into its body. You must lie perfectly still. This will take a long time.

8. When the snake has reached your knees, slowly, and with as little movement as possible, reach down, take your knife and very gently slide it into the side of the snake’s mouth between the edge of its mouth and your leg. Then suddenly rip upwards, severing the snake’s head.

9. Be sure you have your knife.

10. Be sure your knife is sharp.

Friends, there are many snakes out there threatening to split your family and devour your children. May I remind you in Genesis 3:1 that Satan is called the serpent and it says of him: “Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the Lord God had made.” Satan is sinister and is intent on swallowing you. Some of his names from the Bible include Adversary, Accuser, Tempter, Murderer, the god of this world and a Thief. Make no mistake about it – Satan is focused on families today and is doing everything he can to cause friction, fractures, and failure. He’s going after your kids and therefore you and I must fight for our families, using the weapons found in the Word of God for “still our ancient foe doth seek to work us woe.”

From a sermon by Brian Bill, Fight For Your Family, 11/22/2009

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