May 25, 2008
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I wish, brothers and sisters, that we could all imitate “the pearl oyster”—A hurtful particle intrudes itself into its shell, and this vexes and grieves it. It cannot reject the evil, but what does it do but “cover” it with a precious substance extracted out of its own life, by which it turns the intruder into a pearl! Oh, that we could do so with the provocations we receive from our fellow Christians, so that pearls of patience, gentleness, and forgiveness might be bred within us by that which otherwise would have harmed us.
—Charles Spurgeon
Comments (10)
amen
I have always enjoyed reading Spugeon.
I recently read this quote somewhere else, and thought to myself what a wonderful comparison it is to forgiveness. I want that picture to come to my mind when I’m in a place to give forgiveness & love to others. How I long to respond in that fashion, instead of letting hurt turn into a sinful attitude~
Sometimes I think I’ve just about got it mastered (there’s my pride rearing up its ugly head again), and then I’m humbled anew to see what a mess I’ve made of a opportunity to forgive. The Lord is good and gracious and so forgiving of us. I’m longing for heaven, for an end to this cruel sin in my life. I pray that I learn these lessons soon… Thanks for sharing Mr. Spurgeon’s thoughts, my friend~
What a beautiful word picture! I need to practice this so very much. I best not resist the “hurtful particles” and “provocations” that enter my life. Maybe I will have a lovely pearl that I can cast down at my Savior’s feet.
@MercifulGrace - Just this week I had several opportunities to respond in forgiveness yet I ‘played’ around with it. It was like a roller coaster ride. How much sooner would I have experienced His peace if I would have immediately made a choice to forgive by His grace. Once I DID do so the peace flooded my soul. The little ‘darts’ still came but they did not prick my soul.
I, too, long for heaven more these days.
I needed to read this, this am. I continually hear of slander from others (christians) we spent years investing time and talents in. Last night heard of another “tale”. My mouth dropped. I have no idea how these things can be believed or even insinuated but…..
I know there is not a thing I can “do”. But I do realize my own heart needs to be brought to a place that at times I am not very willing to go to. I sure like to hear the word forgiveness when I know it is in the context of the Lord Jesus forgiving me. but to practice forgiveness……..Thank you for the post.
This was an amazing entry, just what I needed as I come back to xanga. I’m dealing with a LOT, and this really helped me. thanks so much.
Enjoyed that saying very much ! Very good point.
AMEN and great advise. Have a wonderful week. Dawn
Wow! I love this.