Recently,
journalist/ interviewer, Larry King had singer/songwriter, Jewel on his
broadcast. Amid the discussion topics, he brought up one of her oft-quoted
statements, “Hard wood grows slowly.”
When asked
to clarify that quote, Jewel compared two trees: one which shoots up quickly,
but does not have the strength to remain and the other which grows slowly and
has a sturdy base which lasts for decades.
Once again,
it appears slow and steady wins the race.
I refer to 2
Corinthians 3:18 in my daily life, so much so, I think my husband and
friends do eye rolls on me.
“But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the
glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to
glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.”
I bring it
up a lot.
But, it is
because I need it- a lot.
Life
requires our implementation of patience, in matters big and small, spiritual
and secular.
“But let patience have her perfect work, that ye
may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.”
James 1:4
How many of
us have made embarrassing, detrimental choices, all because we were hasty and
wanted instant results?
This
includes issues like overcoming adversity, practicing sobriety and holding out
for the best when we’re tempted to settle for what looks like “good enough.”
We all have
done- and can also currently do- this very thing.
We think we instantly
need the manifestation of our obsessions/desires/goals. Yet, in running after
that with our recklessness, we are in danger of becoming that fast-growing tree
which collapses all too quickly.
We need to
be the slow tree.
But that slow tree does not gratify easily. It requires a commitment
to the patient, arduous, longer process. In this process, uncertainty pops up,
threatening to fill us with doubt and “it’ll never happen” arguments.
We may want
to give up...several times...even constantly...
Yet, we need
to remember there is a promise out there to our slow, frustrating growth...
“For ye have need of patience, that, after ye
have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.”
Hebrews 10:36
“Hard wood grows slowly.”
Remember that, dear tree, remember that.
Copyright © 2016 by Sheryle Cruse
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