In our picture today we have a chipmunk, or ground squirrel. Let us learn something about the habits of these little animals and in what way we ought to try to be like them.
See what large feet and strong looking claws they have. With these claws they dig or burrow deep into the ground, and there they make themselves little round houses.
It is said that “during July and part of August chipmunks do little but play, seeming to spend all their time from sunrise to sunset in galloping over the ground, fences and walks, chasing each other like children playing tag, and trying to bite each other’s tails.” They have a time to play, but they work first. They do not play until after they have made their houses and their work is done.
Little children can all find some work to do and be busy, just as the animals are. Each one of you knows how he can help Papa and Mamma, or perhaps Grandma and Grandpa. Then when your work is finished it is good for you, also, to run and play.
When the squirrels burrow out their houses down under the ground they generally make two doors. Then if some enemy runs into their house through one door—trying to catch them—they can run out through the other door, and so escape in safety.
Sometimes, dear children, dangers follow us, but we, too, like the little animals, have a way of safety. Do you know what it is? There is a beautiful verse which says:
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Ps. 46:1.
We can always flee to God and ask His protection, and He says He will deliver us if we call upon Him in the day of trouble. Ps. 1:15.
Chipmunks are easily caught in traps. I think you have all seen mouse traps or rat traps and know what a trap is.
We set traps to catch animals when we want to kill them or tame them for pets. In the traps we place cheese or some other kind of food to attract the animals.
Did you ever think that traps are set for you? Do you know who sets them? It is Satan. He sets traps for us in order that he may get us in his power and keep us away from God. In the trap he puts something to attract us. It may be temptation to do naughty, wicked things. It may be money or pleasure. He has many ways of catching us. Are we going to be easily caught like the chipmunk?
We surely will, unless we often ask God to help us.
See how bright and watchful are the eyes of our ground squirrel! He is watching and listening, ready to run at the sight or sound of any approaching danger.
Let us be watchful, too. If we are not, we shall certainly be caught in Satan’s traps and snares.
ML 09/27/1903