Clean Barn, Empty Life

When our grandson visits, he heads straight for the ottomans holding his toys. In no time his toys are scattered everywhere, and by the time he leaves it looks like a toy tornado hit. If we didn't have a small child in our lives our house would stay clean – but that inconvenience doesn't compare to the joy he brings. Solomon describes it perfectly: "Where no oxen are, the trough is clean; But much increase comes by the strength of an ox." (Proverbs 14:4 NKJV). A farmer who wants a clean barn can't have an ox – but without one he won't be successful. This principle applies across so many areas of life: the tension between disorder on one side and success and joy on the other. We may avoid getting involved in church or people's lives because it's messy, but we lose real relationships and purpose. We may sidestep challenges to protect our comfort, but we miss opportunities to grow and make a difference. The things that bring the greatest joy and meaning often come with inconvenience, sacrifice, and a little mess. Perhaps we need to stop measuring the quality of our lives by how comfortable and orderly they are, and start measuring it by the fruit we produce. (Craig B). Open Bible – bit.ly/Pro14v4