Paint the Fence

Jul 18

So, I went church on Sunday and I was beyond blown away by the sermon and just knew I had to shout it from the rooftops.

I just listened to it again - it was just as powerful as the first time.

Reverend Denise Pierce delivered the sermon and she is GOLD. Oh my gosh, what a smart, powerful, impactful woman. Her sermons always burrow deep into my spirit and leave me changed for the better. You can listen to it (podcast style) or watch it - I recommend watching it as she is mesmerizing.
--
Here is my interpretation of her sermon.

From time to time, life is really tough. We go through seasons of hurt, heart break, tension and turmoil. And most times, we do our best. We are being kind, trying again, giving the benefit of the doubt and yet - nothing seems to be falling in our favor.

Have you ever been in a difficult situation and prayed, "God, just help me be happy! I just want this to be over."

Me too.

And sometimes days and weeks and months pass and I'm doing my best - and yet - NOTHING IS CHANGING.

Cue The Karate Kid...

Daniel befriends Mr. Miyagi and asks to learn karate (to defend himself from bullies at school) and does Mr. Miyagi teach him karate right away? No.

He tells him to paint the fence.

Up and down, up and down. Not just any old way. A very particular way.

And then karate? No.

Sand the floor. Sand the floor. Sand the floor.

And then karate? No.

Paint the house. Side to side, side to side. Not just any old way. A very particular way.

Daniel doesn't understand what he's being shown.

Do you know how the story ends? Daniel triumphs over his opponents, in a karate match.

At first look Daniel was fixing up the house. But at the second look - Daniel was learning karate. Skills he needed to defeat his enemies and win life's battles.

How does this apply to us?

When the biggest fight of our life comes, we will be ready, because we have been diligent at being kind, we have learned how to be content, we have learned that we are mighty - and above all we have learned that God resides within each one of us.

Let's not take our difficulties at face value, but let's take a second look as see how our character is developing.

Listen to the sermon. It is GREAT!

warmly - catia