I was amazed the first time I
saw it. I imagined I never would, but I did.
My brother and I had recently started backcountry
camping. Our first trip found us with cheap sleeping bags that delivered only
shivers. So we visited a reputable camping catalogue and upgraded.
When my six foot one inch bag arrived, it was stuffed
in a two foot sack. I removed it relishing the fact I would never be cold again.
What I didn’t understand was how six feet could stuff in two. Initially it
sprung out as quickly as I stuffed. Eventually I learned to stuff a little at a
time.
Stuffing is necessary when backpacking a sleeping bag;
otherwise it takes all available room. Stuffing our sins, however, is deadly.
John says:
"If we
claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us."
(I John 1:8 NIV).
Admitting what we don’t like about ourselves is
difficult but essential: "If
we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and
purify us from all unrighteousness."
(I John 1:9 NIV).
Stuffing is a paraphrase for repression, and it’s
dangerous emotionally, physically and spiritually. But if you’re like me, I
don’t much enjoy admitting mistakes. It’s easier to transfer the blame to
someone else. It’s more convenient to talk about other’s faults than admit I
have the same ones (read projection). It’s safer to kick the cat than tell my
boss how I really feel (read displacement).
But stuffed stuff comes out; normally in a way that
embarrasses us or at unexpected times. Blowing my top over an insignificant
comment my wife made will probably confuse her. Stuff has a habit of unstuffing
after we’ve stuffed too long. We tire of the effort and of biting our tongue.
Allowing ourselves to feel emotions is healthy. And
regularly confessing our sins to God and keeping open lines of communication
with others will keep the volcanoes in check. It’s better to clear our
consciences than stack skeletons.
Prayer: When stuffing seems the easy way out, Lord
motivate us to be honest with You and others.
Martin Wiles
mandmwiles@homesc.com
Harleyville, South Carolina, USA
www.morningliteministry.com
The Illustrator: This daily newsletter is dedicated to encouraging
everyone to look towards Jesus as the source of all the solutions to our
problems. It contains a daily inspirational story, a Bible verse and encouraging
messages. HTML and plain text versions available.
The Nugget: Published three times a week, this newsletter features inspirational devotionals and mini-sermons dedicated to drawing mankind closer to each other and to Christ.