I’ve had a “first time in my whole life” joy this week. I’ve had a toothache! Who knew that one little tooth deciding that it didn’t like heat or cold would HURT SO MUCH! Due to my mother’s persistence in taking me to the dentist and orthodontist all those years ago (Thank you, Mother!), I’ve never really had any issues in my adult life. Now, there was that time when I was in Omaha, Nebraska and thought that I couldn’t leave without eating an “Omaha steak”, and I broke a tooth the last night there. I wasn’t too thrilled about having that sharp piece in my mouth, but it didn’t hurt. This tooth HURT!
So I got in to see the dentist (hallelujah!) – x-rays looked fine – no cracks, no cavity, no infection – Thankfully, it was a take ibuprofen, cover it in sensitive toothpaste several times a day, and pamper that side of my mouth diagnosis. And this morning, it’s a little better – I can drink coffee again!
This whole little episode got me thinking about how one little tooth could cause so much pain. I Corinthians 5:6 says, “…Know ye not that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump?” It just takes a “little bit” of sin to cause pain in the whole body. Many people today believe that they can read what they want, watch what they want, and go wherever they want and they’re never tempted to sin. They’re strong! but, beware of the “little things” that can lead to sin. The devil doesn’t have to “try” to get the worldly people to sin – he’s already got them. No, he’s “as a roaring lion, walking about, seeking whom he may devour.” (I Peter 5:8) He’s out to get Christians! He’s looking for our weaknesses, and one little weakness can surely cause the whole body pain.
May you “draw near unto God, and He will draw nigh unto you.” (James 4:8) If you feel far from God – guess who moved? God Bless, Courtney