Photo Credit: Sydney Sims
The season of love is upon us. Valentine and cupid are circling the expanse yet again, while a half of humanity flock in droves to the site of the whirling vortex. Begging to be sucked in. Begging to be stung by cupids minuscule arrow. I feel compelled to speak about love this morning, as I may not be touching on the subject come February the 14th (it all depends on how the Spirit leads). My heart goes out to the girl in an abusive relationship, to the woman who’s endured an abusive marriage. To the young man who feels sorely used at his work place. To the menial worker who is being used to the point of no recovery. Both terms seem derogatory. No one want to be imprisoned by the jailer called abuse, and neither do we like to feel like we are being used by anyone. In this season of valentine we see both terms at play but in a new light. For example we witness the abuse of roses and chocolates and perfumes. We witness the exchange of fiercely symbolic items between the worthy and unworthy, between the genuine and the two-timing philanderer. While on the other hand, we witness a great use of flowers, ribbons and boxes of chocolates — the mind blowing artistry, their fancy arrangement and incredulous style of delivery for example. Not to mention the exquisite use of restaurants, decor, dresses, delivery services and car hire services. In both scenarios we see the abuse of one thing and the use of another. How about you the center-of-atrraction, where do you stand in all of these? Are you going to be the recipient of a rose from an abuser? Or would you be given a box of chocolates from a user? User here being the one who has put your worth to good use. A user here, is a person who treats you as a good-for-something and not as a good-for-nothing. But if you are being demeaned or relegated to the shadows all the time, you’re being abused. However, if you’re being made to shine and constantly brought out in the sunlight and the spotlight, to be seen and appreciated, then you are being used. Each one of us was created for use. We were created to be put to good and perfect use, for a good and perfect purpose, to the glory of our Creator and Father. However when that use is deplorable, demeaning, and degrading, then it is no longer use but abuse. So question; where do you stand? Which is your preference? That’s a thought to put your mind to good use! 2 Timothy 2:20 Now in a wealthy home there are not only gold and silver vessels, but also ones made of wood and of clay, and some are for honorable use, but others for ignoble use. — NET Bible
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