But I am like a green olive tree in the house of God; I trust in the mercy of God forever and ever. (Psalm 52:8)
In the previous devotion we discussed how we, like David, can have confidence that God will bring us through our difficult situations and preserve us while we are in the midst of it. Just as the olive tree is sustained through all types of environmental conditions, God preserves His people when they are compelled to walk through fire. That doesn’t mean that we won’t feel the heat of the flame or taste the bitterness of the trials. David certainly did — he left us with several compositions that detail those trials — but he always found a way to be thankful for God’s faithfulness. It should be the same with us; troubles and pain are going to be part of the journey but they don’t have to define us entirely.
Olives are known for their bitter taste, symbolizing the bitterness of life that we so often encounter. As it is written, “Many are the afflictions of the righteous” (Psalm 34:19). Bitterness and heartache, though not desired, cannot be avoided. But in that same verse, it is also acknowledged that the Lord delivers the righteous out of all the afflictions that oppress us. We may come out of it with scars, bumps and bruises, but with the Lord as our guide, we come out of it stronger and more productive for the Kingdom of God. That same bitter olive, when crushed, produces the oil that is used for so many purposes, not least among them, the fuel that gives illumination, enlightenment and comfort.
Like it or not, suffering and affliction is the primary way God exacts from us that which serves His purpose. Like the olive, when we are crushed — that is to say, our flesh is compelled to die — something of great value comes to the surface. Like the precious oil that was used to kindle the light of the Holy Menorah. Allowing God to squeeze us in the press of adversity produces that which can be a light to us and to others. That is, remember, our mandate — to be a light in the midst of darkness. I have long believed, and will continue to argue that — more than talent, skill and charisma — the wisdom, humility and purity that comes through enduring hardship is one of the most valuable contributions we can possibly make to the Kingdom of God. Like the oil in the lamp, it will light our path and will be a light to others.
Blessings and Shalom,
Bill
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