Dirty Diaper Analogy

A two-fold analogy - What would happen if I smelled that my toddler pooped in his diaper, but I did not change it? What if I left the diaper alone for days? It would get messier, stinkier, and -at some point - the poop would get on everyone else and on furniture too. Let's say I then decide to take care of the diaper. Well, it's bigger than that now. His whole body needs bathed. The furniture needs washed. Clothing needs to be burnt. And so on. It would have been a whole lot easier to change the stinky diaper days ago. Right?
 
First interpretation - to parents - when you see sin in your children, correct it (in a godly manner) right away. Don't let the stink spill over and get on everyone and everything else till the whole household reeks.
 
Second interpretation - to believers - God is a loving Father. He knows when we have soiled ourselves. Sometimes we try to run away, because we don't want to be wiped clean. But, in the end, God will clean us up. He will dunk us in the bath tub of heaven and we will come out white as snow. He loves us and He will not let us remain in sin long term. There will be a reckoning. If you choose to run around in your dirty diaper (sin) constantly trying to avoid the Hand that would clean you...well, you will end up soiling other people and all the circumstances you touch. Sin hurts more people than just you. Let God wash you clean. Then, when you are clean, go lead others to the Great Father who would wash them clean. Be a living testimony to the grace and goodness of God.

Healing

Copied from my Facebook Timeline (date as shown) -

Analogy for your Wednesday afternoon - Imagine that a tornado or a strong storm knocked over a large tree in your yard. And you weren't able to clear this tree out. You didn't have the tools or the know-how. Perhaps you took away some small sticks and left the rest behind. This event represents trauma in your life. Now, let's say you want to start clearing away this debris years later. You are more equipped now. But, here is a serious consideration. (In the natural) When timber is left on the ground it becomes a home to many critters. There's a good chance that when you pick through the pile you will run into snakes. Spiritually speaking, as you deal with past trauma little trials will arise. You might find a bee hive or hornet's nest. This should not scare you away from completing the job. This tree needs to be removed to enjoy your yard to the fullest. Likewise, your trauma needs to be dealt with so you can have the abundant life God has given you. Each varmint you tackle in clearing away the dead mass will make your yard (your life) better. It may take years to clear up the whole mess. But, remember, you are not doing this alone! God sent you a Helper, the Holy Spirit, to give you the strength and knowledge to restore your life. Let Him help you! And, keep working at those pesky old tree roots. In time, you will be whole again.

A diligent search

From my Facebook Timeline (date as shown) -

I just read Psalm 77 because of a suggestion by my mother. And I love verse 6 that preceded the change from agony to rejoicing. The English Standard Version says that the writer made a diligent search of God's goodness (to get back his nighttime song of praise). A diligent search. Wow. Have you done a diligent search back over your life to see how God has blessed you and even your forefathers? God is good. If you want your song back - make a diligent search of His goodness in your life!

Pruning Analogy

From my Facebook Timeline (date as shown) -

I know enough about flowers and trees to recognize their growing cycles. Tonight I walked past a rose bush nearly falling over under the weight of its blooms. I immediately knew that that bush was cut way back last year, so that it would produce more blooms in the future. I thank God for speaking to my heart through that rose bush. But, even more than that, I thank God for His goodness in pruning me to produce more fruit later. The cry of my heart is to see the kingdom of heaven advance and grow. God knows my cries to be one who bears much fruit. God is good! This trial - in many more ways than I know right now- is an answer to my heart's cries. Praise You, Jesus! Thank you Father for finding me worthy of gentle pruning. I trust you, Master Gardener, to cut well...for my good and for your glory. Thank you, God.