“For we would not, brethren, have you ignorant of our trouble which came to us..., that we were pressed out of measure, above strength, insomuch that we despaired even of life. But we had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves, but in God which raises the dead; Who delivered us from so great a death, and does deliver; in whom we trust that He will yet deliver us…” 2 Corinthians 1:8-10
Several years ago, I had the opportunity to listen to a brilliant young pastor speak about being "pressed" by God, while offering very specific accounts of his own life experience. The memories of the hope he stirred within a very attentive congregation, encouraged every listener to overcome the obstacles placed in their life, simply by increasing their faith.
He correlated God's "pressing" in our life to “ironing a garment to remove the wrinkles.” It was a truly fascinating analogy that easily created an instant visual for me! As he spoke, I thought to myself, even garments that appear to be permanent pressed still need a little ironing! So, even if you consider someone permanently-pressed by God, not needing any ironing whatsoever; simply remind yourself that, even a warm iron used on a permanent press garment can truly make its appearance spectacular!
He also reminded us that God's iron knows the precise setting He needs to remove the wrinkles out of our life without burning our outer layers or scarring our inner layers. God knows if we are synthetic like polyester, durable like cotton, rough and wrinkly like linen, or even fine like silk. -So, no matter what setting YOU need, He will not burn you in the process!
If this is so, what else can we really say about our trials and tribulations but,-Hallelujah! -Yes, but don't forget to also say, “Have mercy on me Oh Lord, as You press out the wrinkles!" L.
Study Reference: 2 Corinthians 1:8-10
From: "Pressing Out The Wrinkles." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: istock, repairclinic
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