Isn’t it easy to become preoccupied with the lesser (and
more challenging) dimensions of ourselves, and others? Indeed, it is
human nature to emotionally highlight those things which serve to somehow
diminish us. Consider the paralyzed woman who is creatively brilliant and
warmly sensitive to others, but can only visualize the insufficiency of her
legs and feet. Consider the successful businessman who, although lacking
in formal training, possesses a natural aptitude for building enduring relationships
and trust, but is absolutely agonized by the absence of a college degree.
These persons remind me of a family occurrence. I had
given roses to my wonderful wife, Belinda, and was accidentally pricked by a
sharp thorn. My high level of momentary pain compelled further
contemplation, so I sat there for a moment, considering the purpose and plight
of the rose.
Admittedly, my thoughts were somewhat strange: ‘What if
roses were not only living flowers, but fully sentient and emotional beings? And what if they could never discern the
vibrant beauty of their vivid colors and delicate petals, for one reason only,
because they were strangely fascinated by (and totally focused on) their thorny condition? What if roses
were somehow able to smile, but permanently withheld their charismatic glory
because they had grown sad and sullen by constantly contemplating their thorns? What if roses were given to bouts of
melancholy followed by endless tears, so much that their recipients could not
possibly sense their amazing potential for joy?’
What if…?
Well, I have a simple revelation for you. YOU are a ROSE – exclusively designed
and elegantly crafted by Almighty God,
Himself. So, instead of continuously grieving
over your ‘apparent’ thorns, just know
(like the Apostle Paul) that God’s “grace is sufficient” for you. (II
Corinthians 12:7-9)
Who knows? Your thorn just might be the part of you
that GOD will use to touch and transform the life of someone who needs to hear
YOUR TESTIMONY OF TRIUMPH. Never forget
one of the most paradoxical truths shared by our Savior. He declares, “My strength is made perfect in
weakness.” (II Corinthians 12:9)
Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please
(above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING.
Maranatha!
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