I've been saying for a few months that I am culturally irrelevant and posting a picture of this guy created in 1950 proves it. When I talk with my younger, cooler friends I am constantly explaining some reference about which they are clueless. Let me introduce you to Gumby. I loved the Gumby and Pokey claymation show when I was a little kid. I even had a Gumby doll that I could twist into all sorts of poses. Gumby was what my sister Jennifer would call 'bendy'. He came to mind today when the Lord was speaking to my heart.
Not to belabor circumstances, but frankly they have have been off the charts lately. A whole lot of spiritual warfare which has produced distraction, anger, exhaustion, tears, counseling, more tears, etc. Well, you get the point. Amidst all of this, I've been diligent about protecting my mind with word, praying diligently for truth to prevail, checking in with others for sharpening, and taking vain thoughts to the Lord. Yet, I've noticed a kernel of hardness in my heart. A bit of bitterness starting to take a hold. I've seen it in my responses to perceived wrongs done (no, Jesus doesn't want me to throat punch people!), my desire to isolate (which is different than regrouping), and wanting to quit (seriously, I am going to quit on the BEST thing that ever has happened to me?? Don't think so, Jesus!).
But today...I was talking to the Lord on my way to work about all of this and He sweetly reminded me of something. These circumstances aren't necessarily to change other's behaviors, but maybe to change me. He asked me if I was willing to be molded into whom He is fashioning me to be. Would I stand strong on the Word of Truth in spite of the culture? Would I love others in spite of the hurt? Would I risk my feelings of wanting to protect myself to protect and stand with others who are facing battles they shouldn't have to? Am I willing to be bendy for Him, to let the Creator mold His creation into a woman who can influence others for eternity by her responses to circumstances? Sobering. I admit, it causes trepidation in me. Yet, how can I not trust Him, the keeper of my very soul, to handle those fears? He loves us so. Tired friend reading this,be encouraged. He wants so much greater for you... be bendy!
But now, O Lord, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand. Isaiah 64:8
