"Out, damned spot! Out, I say!" commanded Lady MacBeth. Although I claim no likeness to the Lady or to her learned creator, I think I partially understand her frustration. Shakespeare's character was in a situation far more dire than most of us face but having said that, there are a lot of people around here who would dearly love to get rid of this common but most annoying cold and cough.
The cold has been making its rounds in our town and from what I hear, it's pretty much worked its way across provincial and national boundaries. Like so many seasonal afflictions, it's referred to as a "common cold". Common or not, more than a few folks have been laid low by its fury.
Over the years I've observed that it's rarely the catastrophic events we face that erode our spiritual strength but rather, common, everyday challenges. A nagging headache, an aggravating family member or a seemingly never-ending life situation can drain us of energy and inspiration. The unrelenting appeal to compromised integrity, in whatever form it takes, can render us weak and unable to resist what we know to be wrong. As someone posted on-line, "Have you ever wondered why opportunity knocks once yet temptation bangs on?"
According to those more knowledgeable than I, getting over a cold is aided by drinking lots of fluids, consuming over-the-counter medications and enjoying homemade chicken soup. As for nagging temptation, God has promised daily strength and protection as we partake of His always available grace.
No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.(1 Corinthians 10:13 -NKJV)
