FROM THE DIRECTOR’S DESK ~ From time to time, I like to eat popcorn while watching a movie. There is an anticipation as I hear it in the microwave as it goes Pop! Pop! Pop! It is the smell of it cooking, the salty flavor, the kernels in my teeth, and the dipping sauce that I dip it in. The cooking process in the microwave creates moisture in the bag that turns into steam. The steam rises pressing against the shell of the corn. When the shell cannot handle it any longer, you hear the kernel pop as it becomes popcorn. Because of what’s on the inside has gotten so hot that the outside of the kernel cannot take the pressure any longer, it gives way to the expansion of the outer shell. That’s when you get fluffy, delicious popcorn. (Hint: my son-in-law tells me that 1:45 in the microwave makes perfect popcorn).

What pops out of us as Christ-Followers when the pressures and difficulties of life frequently come our way? Is it a reflection of the flesh and its sinful nature (anger, quarreling, jealousy, envy, impurity, selfish ambition, etc.)? Or is it that of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, self-control, etc.)? The struggles in our lives can build up to such a point that what is on the inside of us pops out and is revealed by our outward expressions and conduct. For that reason, we are in constant need of quiet time with the Father, meditating on His Word, and listening to that still small voice that He so eagerly wants us to hear. That is what will allow the Spirit to rise up in us so that when the pressures of life come, what pops out of us will be a reflection of His character, conduct, attitude, and actions that will bring Him glory, "...so that the life of Jesus may also be seen in our bodies... "2 Cor. 4:10b  ~ God’s blessings, protection, and favor to all.

Benny Nolen
Director
Joseph's Storehouse