Nightcrawlers

Keeping with the theme of inviting worms into our homes.  There is another "worm" we do not want in our homes! 

This worm wiggles its way in during the night and causes spiritual deterioration to the foundation of your home. 

This worm is a nightcrawler. 

Have you ever had a fight with your spouse just before bedtime?  If you haven't, you probably aren't married.  For Chris and myself, it seems to be when most conflicts occur for some reason.  Perhaps we are tired and more vulnerable to conflict.  However, more likely it is because the enemy knows that if he can cause division and discord that is unresolved before bed, it opens a door for him into your life. 

"In your anger, do not sin"; do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.  Ephesians 4:26-27


Nightcrawlers are also typically used as bait for fishing.  The enemy knows that if he can get you to take the bait, it will give him entrance into your home. When we go to bed angry, we are taking the bait and giving the devil an opportunity to to cause division in our homes. 

Nightcrawlers eat decomposing matter and garbage.  Strife and division are garbage.  Sin is garbage.  When we allow sin to spend the night with us, we are inviting "worms" into our homes.  These "worms" just get stronger and stronger when left unaddressed and allowed to fester.  The Lord is giving us a warning here in Ephesians. 

The divorce rate in this country among Christians over 50 percent!  I think in some cases, if not most, people allowed nightcrawlers into their homes.  What started out as a little foot in the door can lead to a full blown invasion.  An issue that maybe started out small is now mountainous. Many times they don't even remember why it started! It is because a small conflict was left unresolved and they went to bed angry. 

If you and your spouse have unresolved conflict, I encourage you to do whatever it takes to resolve it.  If you need to go on a date and spend the whole night talking and talking, do it!  The cost of a babysitter is much less than counseling or a divorce!  I know these are harsh words, but truth sometimes is harsh.  If your situation will take more than a night away talking, then I encourage you to seek counseling.  Again, counseling may be expensive, but it is not as expensive as a divorce!  And I'm not just talking about finances here!  

Don't go another day letting the enemy devour your marriage.  Don't take the bait any longer.  Talk out the issues at hand and resolve the conflict.  Cast that strife out of your home.  Make a pact with your spouse to not go to sleep until you are hugging and kissing and all is forgiven.  Don't let the sun go down while you are still angry.  Don't let those worms into your home!