Lessons from a splinter

It was the tiniest speck of a splinter in the heal of my hand, but was causing me frustration. I got it while doing work in the yard and used the normal route of tweezers to remove it. Although I managed to get the larger portion out, a tiny, nearly invisible piece remained imbedded in my hand. And it hurt!

I tried getting it out with a needle and peroxide, but to no avail.  So I waited.  I knew the body's natural healing would take its course and make the splinter fester.  When it did, I was finally able to remove the speck of annoyance from my hand.  Although it is still tender, I know the wound will now completely heal. Looking at the speck I thought of how the tiniest things can create enormous pain and frustration.  I realized there was a lesson deeper than the physical splinters we try to avoid.

As I prayed and pondered, the Lord brought to mind how anxiety is the splinter in our souls. The tiniest worry that God is not in control or able to meet our needs, creates a festering wound that only He can heal. This immediately brought to mind Philippians 4:6&7 "Be anxious for nothing but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God which surpasses all understanding will guard your heart and mind through Christ Jesus."

Isn't the peace of God what we all desire? 

His peace, which surpasses all understanding is available to those who find comfort under the shadow of His wings. He will heal us of the splinters and wounds in our souls if we will let Him. So when that little speck of anxiety pokes your soul - pray.  Thank God that He is showing you there are places He wants you to allow Him to heal. Ask Him to reveal the root and then rejoice as He brings about healing. 

He loves us more than we can possibly imagine and wants to heal us of everything that keeps us from living joyfully in His presence and peace. Turn to Him with your anxieties.  Trust Him to do an awesome work.

He is always faithful.