Nougat 8

A few years ago, just at the beginning of my newfound employment I experienced a terrible toothache. The plans had gone awry as I missed the dental appointment to determine what was the ‘root’ of the pain. I had no time for trepidation – the pain was that intense. After paperwork formalities were done, the dentist ran a few tests and began gently pressing on specific points on the gum line to determine what was going on. Those tests, combined with X-rays showed a hairline crack along the entire length of the tooth. Only surgery could help me as the tooth was gone.

That was its own issue, but having successfully extracted the tooth, I recall feeling movement. The dentist was ensuring that no little bits were left in the gum. Despite the immediate pain after the anesthetic wore off, I knew that all would be well. Because I trusted the dentist. Have you ever had a similar experience? Consider that as you partake of today’s Holy Nougat

“Probe me, ADONAI, and test me, refine my mind and my heart.” Psalms‬ ‭26:2‬ ‭TLV‬‬

Far too often, we have deep rooted sin lurking in our lives. Sometimes we don’t catch it right away and more often than not; when we finally realize that we’ve been ‘infected’, it’s too late for us to fix ourselves.

To probe requires searching (with an instrument) in determining what is at the root of an issue, human or otherwise. If we invite God in, we may find ourselves asking God to perform surgery in a manner similar to the dentist I sought. For God may need to go several layers below the surface of our current situation and behavior to relieve us of the root cause of our sins. And, having helped us overcome the sin situation; the ‘post-op exam’ will come; to assure us that we truly have moved on.

I can’t guarantee that the process for overcoming the sin will be pain-free. It might be a very emotional journey. But, I guarantee that if we have fully handed control to God; it will be worth it.

Are we ready to invite God’s probing past the superficial aspects of our lives?

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May all we seek be found in Christ