Messy Times
/Have you noticed how preparing creamy mashed potatoes involves preliminary messy times of dealing with potato peelings? A well-running car has messy times of oil changes. We perform these actions, not because we relish the mess, but because we have a bigger goal in mind.
These mundane experiences can help you remember that you, too, in your relationship with the Lord, can expect “messy times” such as doubts, worry, anger, confusion, resistance. Paul experienced “a messy time” which he referred to as “a thorn in my side.” Paul, feeling he could serve the Lord much better without said “thorn,” asked the Lord three times to remove it! And the Lord’s response to Paul? “My grace is sufficient for you” (2Cor 12:9)
Sometimes, does that seems to be the same response the Lord sends to you during your own “messy times” – those times when you fall far short of your own expectations, or are experiencing dryness, weariness or discouragement: “My grace is sufficient for you” (even though you might not feel renewed courage or strength or even hope right now!)
The author Blackaby encourages you to persevere during those “messy times “with a “self-management that comes from trusting God.” The book of Hebrews counsels you: “Therefore do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward, for you have need of endurance . . . lift your drooping hands and strengthen your weak knees, and make straight paths for your feet.” (Hebrews 10:35-36 and 12:12)
Turn to the Lord as Paul did, and then turn to your responsibilities. Go ahead, peel those potatoes, change that oil, move through those “down times” knowing that you are dearly loved by God. Pray simply, “Dear Lord, here I am even though you seem to have abandoned me. Here I am. Bless me and this messy time.” - Jackie Freitas
