Something the Lord Made (Mos Def, 2004)

Was Mos Def nominated for an Emmy for this performance? He definitely earned it and proved his acting ability to the world. If you haven't seen this movie--based on a true story--go out and get it today! It has medical themes, so it's befitting of today's topic.
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My one year old son is suffering from some type of cold/sinus/respiratory infection (or something similar). In short, he has a runny nose coupled with chest and head congestion. His breathing is labored and loud. I feel so bad for the poor little guy. To help, I of course reach for what any mom would...the nasal aspirator.

Can you imagine how much "fun" cleaning his nose is? He screams, cries, flails, kicks, and pushes my hands away. There's snot flying all over the place. I don't blame him. I'm sure it's no fun to have some plastic thing sucking mucus out of your nose. But, it's for his good, and afterwards, he can breath a lot better.

It makes me think of those times that the Lord allows me to go through uncomfortable things--for my good. I remember: the heartbreak of losing a boyfriend or friend that was destructive to me; feeling the financial strain of saving money & paying off debt; or even, being denied something that I really wanted. As I reflect on those times, I know it was for my good. The Word is true in that, "...all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." (Romans 8:28)

So, the next time you find yourself in a difficult situation--don't automatically assume it's a bad thing or some spiritual attack. Sometimes, it just may be God's way of sucking the snot out of your nose. It's uncomfortable, it feels weird, and it's irritating. But, just as my son figured out it would be over quicker if he stopped fighting and let me work, God wants us to do the same.

Allow Him to work--to clean up the things that are making it difficult for you to breathe. You'll feel so much better afterwards.