We’ve all been there. You’re at a gathering and the food line begins with - paper plates. It’s got a pretty edging - but you guiltily grab two because they look flimsy and there is a feast before you. You do your best to support the plate with your fingers splayed underneath. More focused on avoiding disaster than the wonderful abundance before you. Wouldn’t it be nice to just relax and enjoy the meal without the worry of a floppy, sloppy mess hitting the floor?
But wait! There is a brand of paper plates available that holds up. Oh, it’s not real pretty. Plain white in fact. Not a real attention grabber. Not impressive. But strong. Reliable. It can certainly handle more and withstand the weight.
Another life lesson here.
There are many different ways that try to offer balance and security to your life. What are you turning to for support and strength? Help. One way might look good enough. It’s cheap, quick and easy. Should do the trick. With your own hands spread wide you can make it work. Maybe only take a few of the offerings from the wonderful banquet before you. Yet, you’re still not sure of its trustworthiness. You are still focused on how to avoid disaster on your own.
Or there is one (One. Jesus!) who is steady, sturdy, strong enough to handle anything you pile on. And you don’t need to save Him for special occasions or big events. He is available every day. To help carry your load. You don’t need to try to make the quick, easy, flimsy work. Not when you have Jesus. He is more than enough in every way. With His support, you won’t be distracted with worries of unreliability. You can relax as you trust in Him and enjoy the abundant feast (of life!) before you. He is your strength when you are weak. He is your firm foundation. The joy of the Lord is your strength.
Everyone who hears my teaching and applies it to his life can be compared to a wise man who built his house on an unshakable foundation. When the rains fell and the flood came… it stood firm because of its strong foundation. - Matthew 7:24-25
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. - Psalm 46:1
Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. - Matthew 11:28-30
Go and enjoy good food and sweet drinks. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength. - Nehemiah 8:10
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