Do you ever feel this way? That sometimes life is like an outhouse, and you’re on the wrong side of the hole. I get to feeling like that once in awhile.
We are all trying to claw our way toward the light for one reason or another. Frequently, I need to remind myself of a simple truth. There is but one hand, strong enough, to lift me up and out. All I have to do is ask for it.
Now that does not mean that I will come out smelling like a rose. I may have been lifted out of the wretched pool of yuck, a good measure of which was deposited there by my own actions, but it will take some serious elbow grease to remove it from my person. In fact, the stench might hang around until some measure of time has passed.
Least you think that I am speaking in some kind of code; perhaps it is best if I just quote some scripture. In Philippians 4:13, Paul says…
“I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.”He was not speaking of performing feats of wonder. His life was anything but easy, and the people were marveling at how he could continue under the hardships he endured. I have heard that to see Paul without his shirt or whatever it was that he wore; one would cringe at the tangle of scarred flesh.
He was endlessly whipped, beaten, stoned, and imprisoned because he shared the good news, that Jesus had defeated sin for all who would choose to believe in him. Paul was speaking about his dedication to God's purpose in his life, rather than boasting that he could accomplish anything that he set his mind too.
So, when I find myself treading “water” on the wrong side of the hole, I need to remember that God has a purpose for me. He will lift me up and strengthen me, to make it possible for me to fulfill that purpose.
If my sights are set on becoming a billionaire, then I will likely spend a lot of time dodging clumps of bad smelling debris while floating in the darkness. Some are intensely focused on gaining power and prestige at all costs as seems evident by watching many in the political realm.
As I work to rid my own person of the stench from past dips on the dark side of the hole, I cannot help but notice the fumes rising from so many in public life. It seems irresistible at times, to cut loose on them. Perhaps that tendency of mine is something that could use a bit more elbow grease. I’ll have to give that some more thought.
Copyright ©2007 by Phil Harris
I love the way you write. Its an honor to call you my Father! Keep'em coming!!!
Chris
Posted by: Chris | February 19, 2007 at 10:45 PM