Public toilets are a necessary evil. “Evil,” because many are less than clean. “Necessary,” because I need them frequently.
Thankfully, my mother taught me the fine art of hovering when I was still a young girl. This skill has served me well and I have perfected it. I can get close enough to prevent splashing and still avoid actually touching the toilet seat.
Recently I saw an amazing new feature on a public toilet. If it catches on, my “hovering” muscles may atrophy. I had just gotten off a plane in New Orleans, hustled to the ladies room, and hurried into the stall. Prepared to “take the stance,” something unusual caught my eye.
Clean, clear plastic covered the toilet seat. The writing on the back of the toilet read: “Before use, wave hand in front of green wall mounted sensor or press green button for fresh sanitary seat cover. Stops automatically.”
So, I waved my hand and like magic the plastic scooted away and fresh plastic took its place over the seat. Then I confidently took care of business. No hovering muscles required.
That toilet seat was truly protected. The plastic covering guarded it from all kinds of outside evil. Constant protection produces constant clean. The person who thought this up is a genius.
Wouldn’t it be great if we could cover our souls with plastic wrap? It’s a big, bad world out there. Temptation constantly bombards us. Sometimes we turn away and stand firm in obedience to God. Other times, we hover too close. Instead of running we allow ourselves to be “dragged away and enticed” (James 1:14), yielding to temptation and falling headlong into sin.
In the paths of the wicked lie thorns and snares, but he who guards his soul stays far from them.
Proverbs 22:5, NIV
Unprotected souls are easy prey for Satan’s schemes and our own sinful desires. But when we keep constant guard over our hearts and minds we protect ourselves from many pitfalls. Know your weaknesses and take measures to guard against them. Be aware of the areas where you are apt to fall and avoid those things. Cover your soul with Saran Wrap.
What are some areas of weakness for you? What measures can you take to protect yourself from temptation?
I just HAD to comment on this one, Kathy! Great post! Plastic wrap for the souls…yep. That would be a great idea. In fact…it is a great idea! You are so right. We need to stay focused on God. When we immerse ourselves in His word, stand firm in obedience we are protected from the, um, splashes in life. We need to be aware of our weaknesses and take measures to be sure that we avoid situations where temptation could get the better of us. Plastic wrap for the souls is the complete Armor of God!
Thanks for sharing this very thought provoking post!
Blessings, Joan
Thanks for commenting Joan! You beautifully expressed the heart of the message. As soon as I saw that toilet I just knew there was a spiritual analogy in there!
Awesome idea. Only a writer would move this idea into a ‘written’ analogy for life.