Today we went into a used movie store. It felt like stepping back into the 90s, like we were in Blockbuster again, perusing the shelves looking for the new releases. Those were the days. Chad had agreed to let the kids pick out a movie they had never seen. It was his little ploy to keep from having to take them to see Angry Birds, which isn’t exactly high on his non-existent list of must-see movies.
In the end, the kids walked out happy, and we walked out with extra change in our pocket and two hours of our lives that we would have otherwise lost watching pigs and birds duke it out on the big screen.
As we were walking to the car, Sawyer told me about seeing a big tub of bouncy balls in the store. He immediately walked over to it and grabbed one, of course. But, as he was happily bouncing the ball, he noticed a large black and white notice posted right above the tub: Do not play with these bouncy balls unless you intend to buy one. He told me about how he sheepishly put the ball back and quickly walked away.
I had to smile as he sincerely said, “Mama, it’s like that sign was talking directly to me.”
I’ve had a few experiences like that myself.
But, the truth is, more often than not, I think of OTHER people who need to get the message. I hear a sermon that should be convicting me to my very core, but all I can think about is how I hope so-and-so is listening and taking note. I read scripture that should move me to repentance, but instead it makes me think of how someone else needs to repent. Way too often I have a sign hanging in clear black and white right in front of my face, and I think it applies to someone else, not me.
I know I must make God sigh sometimes.
The truth of His word is for me. It applies to me, just like that sign about bouncy balls exactly applied to Sawyer in that moment. I pray that I would see it so clearly like he did. And, I pray that seeing the truth leads to real repentance and humility. His word is true, and it’s talking directly to me, not just to all the people I think need to hear it.
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:17
John Yates preached yesterday on applying God’s Word to our lives….walk the talk. It was very convicting! And now your post….maybe it’s my black and white sign!
🙂 Could be, Tracy! Don’t miss it!