My last post was all about the “positive pebbles” in my life.  I think of pebbles and small, smooth stones.  This post is all about rocks that aren’t as much fun to walk on!  Bumpy, pointy rocks that are rough on every part of their surface. They are necessary when creating a foundation for a driveway. They help in water flow under bridges. They are crushed to create other substances. Small rough rocks were a favorite part of my childhood on the farm.  Living on a “dirt” road, I enjoyed playing in the “ditch” after a heavy rain.  Water was trickling along over tiny rocks and pebbles. Those tiny rocks always looked like iron to me. 

In Proverbs 27:17 we read “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” As much as I enjoyed remembering all the pebbles in my life, I am willing to acknowledge that many rocks were sent to sharpen me over the years. I look back at times when my pride got in my way.  God needed to humble me. Sometimes it only took one comment from one person to remind me that HE was the one working through me to accomplish things. Just when I thought the road was smooth as a pebble, along came those bumpy rocks to slow me down. I needed to stop and remember how I got here. I knew/know if I trust Jesus that eventually life will get back to the smooth surface. Sometimes those rocky paths last longer than we want. Sometimes they are brief, but bring great panic. Sometimes those rocky people or events have some super sharp edges.

Sadly, I am well aware that I have been a sharp rock for others. My human nature has let my tongue run amuck many times, and I know I have hurt people I love by my words.  Some of those people I have been able to apologize to; but there are others that I am certain there are others I am unaware of that need to hear an apology from me.  I pray God will direct me to them in HIS time. I can honestly say that I have been blessed and comforted when needed apologies were directed towards me.  

I am thankful for both the smooth pebbles and sharp rocks that have been worked into my life. Without them, I would not look to God for guidance or offer him thanks and praise.  They all made me the person I am right now at this moment. They continue to help me grow into the person God created me to be.  I know that more sharp rocks are in my future as well as some smooth pebbles.  With God’s grace and mercy, I pray I grow through each trial and blessing.