Old + New = Broke (the saga continues)

My new part came in! Yeah! So I went out to replace it. I was able to get two of the four bolts out with no problem, but then I couldn't get the other two out without a "helper". A "helper" is a piece of pipe that goes on the end of my ratchet handle to extend the length. It provides an extra long fulcrum so more torque can be applied to the bolt. The problem with "helpers" like that is sometimes they work well and the tight bolt is turned by the extra torque, but more often than not the extra torque just breaks the head of the bolt off.

Yep, you guessed it. Those two remaining bolts broke right off when I put the "helper" on them. It's not really a problem since the part that has the rest of the bolt still in it is the part I am replacing. I just need two more bolts so I can finish the job. I have to replace what I broke in the name of "helping" those bolts to come out.

There are times when we resemble old rusty lawn-mower bolts. We are stubborn and insistant that we have the only right answer. We hold ourselves in place no matter how much pressure is put on us. God often uses a "helper" to break us out of our stubbornness and pride. Sometimes that "helper" is a Christian brother or sister who helps us to see the sin in our own lives. Sometimes that "helper" is just the message of the Word. If we are truly like that bolt, we have a choice. When the pressure is applied we can be like the two bolts that I was able to get out with a normal wrench. We can decide to let go of those things that are hindering us. Or, we can be like those two bolts that I had to apply the "helper" to. We must get broken before we turn loose of whatever it is.

The author of Hebrews used the analogy of running a race for the same point:
Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
--Hebrews 12:1-2

We really need to lay aside that sin that is dragging us down and fix our eyes on Jesus. Don't be like a stubborn, rusty bolt. Let go when you feel God's conviction. Don't wait to be broken. Brokenness can be a good thing, but we don't have to wait until we are shattered to be obedient.

Now, if I can just find some replacement bolts.............