The Banana Philosophy

When I think about Haiti, I think of a place of peace, where I was grounded in a routine, in ministries, in languages and in relationships. But it wasn't always so. My first few years were horrible. I mean horrible. I was miserable. Now I can look back at those times and see that God was banana-ing me.
First He pealed me. He took away everything I was good at. Everything that made me feel like me. So often I prayed, "I can't take anymore." But He wasn't done. He then smooshed me - getting rid of philosophies and beliefs and the hardness of my soul.
And now... I sometimes think we're starting all over. My Self has grown back up, and though I look different, there is still more that needs to be pealed... more needs to be smooshed.
And even though it hurts, His hand is gentle.

It's for His glory, you know. It doesn't seem glorious now. It doesn't seem full of the good fruit of the Spirit. It is so not fun. But, in the end what is is that we really want? We want God. And if this is what it takes, so be it. He will be faithful.

"Lord, I give up all my own purposes and plans, all my own desires and hopes and ambitions, and accept Thy will for my life. I give myself, my life, my all utterly to Thee, to be Thine forever. I hand over to Thy keeping all my friendships; all the people whom I love are to take a second place in my heart. Fill me and seal me with Thy Holy Spirit. Work out Thy whole will in my life, at any cost, now and forever." --Betty Stam (wife of John Stam mentioned on page 13 in our study book)