Visions of candy danced in my head.
My very first time observing the piñata game was years ago at a kid's birthday party. I had never seen one before that day and had no idea what to do with it.
After learning that the animal-shaped object dangling from the ceiling was full of sweet stuff, however, I was like, game on!
Determined to give the piñata my best whack, I watched as the first contender was chosen. Not understanding the nature of the game, though, I instantly assumed the first one up there would be the winner by default. I mean, how hard can it be to hit that gigantic thing with a stick? I thought.
I was about to learn.
When I saw one of the adults walk up behind “lucky number one” and cover their eyes with a scarlet blindfold, my perception shifted.
Instead of how hard can it be, I was thinking, how is that even possible?
I kept watching.
Around and around and around the grownup twirled the blinded stick-holder. Finally, after the wobbly little person stumbled, they were released.
Right away, the room of spectators grew boisterous, shouting out commands, while periodically laughing at the ineptitude of the poor child with no chance whatsoever to succeed.
Move over.
Go that way.
No, move over this way!
You’re not even close.
After observing several unsuccessful attempts, when my chance came, I was determined to learn from those who failed. That candy was going to be mine—every single piece.
Once I was blindfolded and turned around, though, my confidence was replaced with confusion. How could I know which direction to swing? I had no idea where I was positioned. Furthermore, all the voices screaming out only heightened that discombobulated feeling.
This game was no fun and it certainly looked far easier while critiquing from the sidelines.
But I gave it my best shot, then another, and another, and—whop!
I hit something solid. The cheers grew and I repeated the same motion. Sure enough, I had accomplished something no one else did that day.
But you know what? Even though I hit the piñata, I couldn’t break it open.
A stronger adult had to come over, yank it off its string and hit it multiple times before literally stomping a hole through it to get inside.
We all laughed and enjoyed the sweet rewards. “Was that thing made of concrete?” several people joked.
It was hard alright—much harder than it looked, just like a lot of situations in our lives turn out to be.
In many ways, daily life can feel like a piñata game: we can’t see; we get turned around; we stumble; we listen to others tell us what we should do; we give it our best shot and still can’t seem to get a breakthrough.
It’s frustrating!
But just like in my experience, someone stronger than us has the power to open things up. Thank God we don’t have to do it alone. We’re not expected to work things out in our own strength.
The sooner we recognize that, the better off we’ll be.
Today, if you have tried your best and nothing is working, why not step aside? Let the One who is stronger and mightier than you, do what you cannot do. Trusting in and depending upon Him produces sweet returns.
To remind you of this, I’m stirring Zephaniah 3:17 NLT into your cup of inspiration. It says, “For the LORD your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs."
When you drink down the contents of your cup, you will be reminded of the Lord’s presence with you. No matter what you’re facing, He is there to guide, help, strengthen, and sustain you.
Although life can be an uphill battle, full of adversity, Christ, our Conquering Savior will secure your victory. Look to Him.
Now let’s pray.
God, I am not strong enough to do things alone. I am not able to handle it. In my own strength, I am too weak. But please remind me that this is no cause for worry, because as long as I trust in You, Your word says in 2 Corinthians 12:10, when I am weak, then I am strong. For you empower me to do all things. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
As always, thanks for reading and until next time... may today's cup of inspiration uplift, encourage, and empower you!
If you need prayer, don't hesitate to request it. I would be honored to stand in faith with You. I know that prayer works. CLICK HERE to learn how to submit your prayer request.
