Psalm 127:4 Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, so are children born in one’s youth.
Sandpaper is used to smooth and shape the shaft of a wooden arrow. Sandpaper removes rough spots, straightens imperfections, and creates an even surface. After sanding, the arrows are polished with varnish, wax or oil.
The circumstances and challenges of life are like sandpaper that smoothens and shapes our spiritual man. Sanding is necessary to clean pride, prejudice and presumptions. Sanding smoothens our tongue, thoughts and testimony. Sanding helps us to realize that we live, move and have our being in Christ Jesus. Sanding of the soul smoothens us to think humbly and speak graciously. For by the grace given to me I say to every one of you not to think more highly of yourself than you ought to think, but to think with sober discernment (Romans 12:3).
The stark difference between a leader who went thought the process of sanding and the one who had not waited is very apparent. David was seasoned through the process of sanding for 15 years and was an exemplary leader. Whereas, the rough edges of Saul who was promoted overnight destroyed his destiny. David sings a profound song of praise at the fang end of his journey with a grateful heart and a thankful attitude – “But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand” (1 Chronicles 29:14). On the other hand, Saul tried to hold on to the throne that he did not earn. He soon forgot the Lord who had graciously elevated him as the king of Israel.
Hence, the disappointments, discouragement or delays are sandpaper that smoothens our soul. If not for these detours and derailments, conceit would choke our soul. God is working in us while we are waiting for elevation and expansion.
Polished for Purpose:
- Grateful: While we are waiting for our breakthrough, God is sanding our soul into humility.
- Generous: The wilderness experience made David generous and developed the art of generosity.
- Godly: Sanding the soul smoothens the soul into godliness.
“While we are waiting the Lord is polishing us for His purpose”.
Prayer: Holy Father, I will remain humble while you polish me for your glorious purpose. Amen.
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