Mark 16:18 (NIV)
…they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all…

From CNN (02/18/14):
A Kentucky pastor who starred in a reality show about snake-handling in church has died — of a snakebite.

I don’t care for snakes. Many years ago in high school biology, a “former” friend took a snake out of its cage and threw it at me while I was busy writing a paper. It landed on my shoulder and around my neck. I screamed like a little girl.

Just the other night, the movie “Snakes on a Plane” was on. I watched about 10 minutes of it. Freaky.

In my life I have seen and heard many people interpret the Bible differently, and I try not to judge them for their beliefs – but handling snakes? Come on.

I’ve studied different religions and their beliefs. There are many. Never in my mind did I believe that I could pick up snakes or drink poison – and I’ve heard about and seen some pretty weird church services in my life.

There’s one thing about the religious snake handling stories on the news that I’ve noticed; hardly anyone is attending the services. I’d bet that most of the folks attending are relatives and close friends. It’s pretty easy these days to get a few relatives and friends together and call it church – and then call one of the leaders your pastor.

Before you head out to find some poisonous snakes to handle at your next church service, remember what is written in Matthew 4:7 “Do not put the Lord your God to the test.”

The best way to grow closer to God is to pray and read your Bible every day.

Most importantly, no snakes are needed.

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