The Deepest
Blow
2 Timothy 4:14-16
Expectations for those generally unknown, subconsciously, remain
relatively low. When a strange pedestrian, automobile, or motorcycle operator
unleashes profane comments in your direction out of frustration, your typical
response would most likely be of minimal output. The rationale for such a
position is due to the low expectation a person has for a non-acquaintance. Truly it may initially and briefly cause slight
discomfort, but from the perspective of human dynamics, mild offenses committed
by strangers cause less pain. However, when the close and familiar commit
similar offenses, the scar, emotional cost, and blow strike on the deepest
level.
The primary goal within this devotional column is to be real and
acknowledge the reality of spiritual living and from which direction your
deepest blow will come. Paul, a true man of God was abused and abandoned by his
own men in the gospel. Notice
his words: “Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil: the Lord reward him
according to his works: Of whom be thou ware also; for he hath greatly
withstood our words. At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men
forsook me: I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge” (2 Timothy
4:14-16). Truly this hurt and devastated Paul because the infliction was
from his own men and brothers of the cross. Some New Converts enter the body of
Christ under a mountain of deception, assuming they will never be hurt or
mistreated because of the Christian expectation. It is a faulty premise.
In all simplicity and cutting to the chase, because of the normal expectation of Christians toward the church, the deepest blow that will ever be endured from an emotional and spiritual stance will come through the church, The Deepest Blow. When you expect the best from the best, the inflicted pain from mere mortals hurts the worst. In a prayerful brace and stance, prepare always for the deepest blow and when it strikes do not let it run you away from the presence of God or His church. Remember, you are the clay in The Potter’s Hands. God has paved a way to save you today!