By Amber Luffman
My toddler and I spent one night on our coastal NC vacation seeing the new Lion King movie in a quaint cinema. I was blown away by the psychological, emotional, and spiritual aspects of this beloved plot.
Scar, so evil, exploited and manipulated young Simba into believing he was responsible for a his own father’s death, telling him if it weren’t for Simba, “his father would still be alive!” Scar convinced Simba of this, despite the fact that Scar was actually behind it all!
Children are so impressionable, and molded by those they’re exposed to. Adults, diligently consider messages communicated to children in your realm of influence, today.
Scar is a Familiar Enemy
Scar had one purpose: to destroy. Know anyone else who prowls around like a lion seeking whom he may devour? Scar sacrificed and used an innocent, impressionable, young cub in order to accomplish his own demented purpose. He cast his own shame onto Simba. He filled Simba’s head with lies creating perceived shame and guilt so profound, Simba ran (literally and figuratively) from his destiny. How many of us were told by our enemy that the horrendous events in our pasts were our fault? Have you hidden in an identity that is not yours, to avoid the true calling on your life?
Scar knew who Simba was, and would someday be… that he was destined for a high place of honor and respect, and Scar set out to ruin it from the beginning. He tried to intercept Simba’s destiny. Satan also tries fervently to high-jack heaven in our own lives.
Simba hid out, defeated, in a comfortable oasis for years, believing the lie that he belonged there, complacent. He adapted the lifestyle of “Hakuna Matata: no worries, for the rest of your days…” Simba rebelled in the lack of responsibility… Isn’t it ironic that Simba was distracted into thinking LACK of responsibility (his true calling,) was one of the “fringe benefits” of his newfound existence? Have you ever been convinced by the enemy to seek pleasure in something polar opposite of what you know, deep down, is right? Promiscuous sex instead of a godly marriage, domestic violence at home instead of righteous family-life, greedy investments behind closed doors in place of honorable stewardship…
The Truth Through Nala’s Eyes
Nala miraculously ran into Simba when she fled her homeland. After all those years, SHE still perceived Simba as king. Even though he tried to convince her that he was an