Sometimes we have irritating circumstances that seem to be part of our life for a long season. In and of itself that is simply irritating! However I think we can see a strategic life lesson in the oyster. When a foreign substance is introduced into its shell, it is kind of like getting a splinter so to relieve the pain that creates, the oyster secretes substance and surrounds the irritant with it. A cut in the mantle of the pearl can produce the same effect. It takes many years for a natural pearl to develop (about 5 years for a 3 mm pearl).
So what strategy am I trying to draw from this? These pearls are very valuable. I think the trials and tribulation the Bible says we will have in our lives can produce something better than crankiness or despair.
The substance we surround the irritant with is the Holy Spirit and His wisdom. After all one of the fruit of our Spirit filled life is (dare I say it?) long suffering. Ouch. No one wants to suffer long. But sometimes that is part of our life experience. Jesus sanctified Himself and suffered for us.
I am not saying every painful thing has to be accepted and we shouldn't take steps to resolve circumstances and differences, maintaining healthy boundaries. Or sometimes, as my friend said yesterday, determine if the offense while still needing our forgiveness, is a "deal breaker" and the offender not allowed to stay as part of our immediate relationship circle.
If it isn't a deal breaker though let's let it be a pearl maker (cheesy play on words I know).
Holy Spirit, today do your work in me. You make the difference in this situation I don't seem to be able to change on my own. I give it to You. Help me to cooperate with You. Fill me today. I choose Your way of responding. I choose to worship and keep a heart of remembering your goodness and promises. Amen
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