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 could somehow serve to 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 beloved wife, Belinda, and was accidentally pricked by a sharp thorn. An
elevated level of momentary pain produced further contemplation, so I sat there
for a few moments, pondering the purpose and plight of the rose.
Admittedly, my thoughts were somewhat strange: ‘What if roses were not
only living flowers, but fully sentient, emotional beings? 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 so that their
recipients could not possibly sense their amazing potential for joy?’
WHAT IF…?
Well, I have a simple yet profound 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 THORNY
CHALLENGE just might be the part of you that GOD uses to touch and
transform someone who needs to hear YOUR TESTIMONY OF TRIUMPH. Never
forget one of the most paradoxical truths shared by our Creator. 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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