2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a NEW CREATION; the old has gone, the new has come!

Creation of the week

Cutting wood in the same direction as its grain grows is easy and makes clean cuts. But cutting cross grain is tough. You need a sharp blade, or it’s messy.
In a culture that’s cross grain to Christianity, we have to stay sharp in order to stay effective. I love the metaphor Solomon gives:

If the axe is dull and he does not sharpen its edge, then he must exert more strength. Wisdom has the advantage of giving success. —Ecclesiastes 10:10

Taking time to sharpen your “tools” in the spiritual life makes work more efficient.

Wayne Stiles