Pressure Produces Diamonds
Psalm 119:142-143 (NLT)
Your justice is eternal, and your instructions are perfectly true. As pressure and stress bear down on me, I find joy in your commands.
Yesterday we began talking about pressure. This word has several definitions of which I will share a couple.
Pressure: powerful and stressful demands on somebody’s time, attention and energy or a demand of this sort; something that affects thoughts and behavior in a powerful way, usually in the form of several outside influences working together persuasively.
Pressure may have been what kept the young man from taking the shot. He may have been thinking, “…what if I miss?” My thoughts were probably, “…what if I don’t do well?” I mean no one wants to let their team down. However the very thing that can paralyze you and keep you from moving forward is the very thing that allows you to shine…pressure.
Pressure is what causes most natural diamonds to form deep within the earth. I believe that deep within each of us, there is a gem just waiting to be discovered. We shouldn’t allow pressure to paralyze us, but instead propel us forward on our journey.
Now rewind back to the 7th grade… I tried out and had the opportunity to compete. I didn’t score a perfect 10, but I did contribute to my team’s overall success. It helped me realize the value in me. And to that young man I would say, “If you shoot and miss, pick up the ball and shoot again. You keep shooting until you find your rhythm and begin to shine.” Like the slogan says for the shoes that the young man was wearing…Just Do It!
What pressure have you overcome?
How did overcoming that pressure affect your life?
Remember to be REAL…
Hello LaShorne,good post! Yes we need that pressure it pushes us forward,and as we mature we'll look back and see just how much good came out of that pressure. I hope you've been well!
Love ya
Ms. Pat, hello! Thanks so much for commenting. I like that…pressure produces maturity. I hope all is well with you too! Sending love your way!!!