Viewing entries tagged
Kendra Cagle
No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it. —1 Corinthians 10:13
Reflect:
A résumé so pristine it practically sparkles. Winged eyeliner that would make a bluebird swoon. A friend squad even a popstar would envy. We do whatever it takes to be a “somebody”; for someone to like, love, and share us to a place of accomplishment. We are different. We stand out. They know us.
That’s what so many of us hope for each day. We want to be chosen. We want to stand apart from every other creation and know that only we could do what we do. We need the whispers of reassurance and shouts of acceptance. But, along with the pleasant notion of acknowledgment and singularity, comes feelings of loneliness and struggle. If we stand unique in our form and purpose, then even our lows are unmatched. If our life and calling is one-of-a-kind, our trials feel even more so. But, as God knit us together in full knowledge of His plans for us, He also created us with our specific trials in mind; trials that many others also face. That is why it is such a precious gift to be like our brothers and sisters in the body of Christ.
No matter how “set apart” we feel, we all share temptation. We are never alone in our fight against the pull of this world. We are one warrior in a united front against the enemy, and God promises escape from destruction. We may have been created to serve a specific purpose, but we will always find a connection to others fighting the same fight. We never have to battle alone. We come to the front with our own set of skills. We create a complete and powerful force against every foe, and, in spite of our earthy goals, embrace the beauty of being lost in a crowd of victors.
Pray:
As we strive to find our unique place in Your kingdom, Lord, lead us to a closeness and kinship with others. When we fight our similarities, remind us of the strength we wield when we work together as one body. Show us how to fulfill Your matchless plan for us with the support of others who are fighting the same fight. Amen
Your Turn:
Have you ever formed a friendship through a shared time of struggle and temptation?
How can we, as followers of Christ, use our distinct calling and skills to help and relate to others?
