“So we must not tire of doing good, for we will reap at the proper time if we don’t give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, we must work for the good of all, especially for those who belong to the household of faith.”- Galatians 6:9-10
In Chapter 6 of How Can I Possibly Forgive?, Sara Horn sates that the human will is one hard cookie. To illustrate, she relates the story of how hunters catch wild monkeys in Africa. Hunters hollow out a coconut or cantaloupe with a hole slightly bitter than the monkey’s hand. Inside hunters place a banana or peanuts. When the monkey makes a fist around its “prize”, the monkey no longer can pull its hand out of the hole.
Essentially, the monkey gives up its life by refusing to let go- by holding on. When we refuse to let go, we miss out on opportunities to serve God. Furthermore, God can’t work through us or in us. We convince ourselves that no one cares. We overlook God’s blessings and gifts. Sara offers these words of encouragement and challenge:
“But God cares very much. He will put people in our paths to remind us of that fact. He will also put people in our paths to challenge us.”
As we grow in our understanding of God’s bigger picture in our lives and the lives of others, we will develop patience. With patience, we’ll be more willing to disregard the negative words and actions of others.
Today’s question: To what offense are you still holding on? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Insight and patience”