Life and lemons… In this case, exotic lemons.
Clichés become accepted because of its common occurrence. It is an inevitable fact of life translated into a fitting, universally accepted expression.
“For you have been given the privilege of serving Christ, not only by believing in him, but also by suffering for him.”
Philippians 1:29
Sour moments come whether we like it or not. The question is, what can one do to neutralize and withstand the displeasing taste of tribulation? We could opt to eat chocolate, but even indulging in something can become a problem in itself. We run the risk of eating too much sweets it makes us gain weight, which makes some of us sink into depression. It is interesting though that even the most sour moments in a person’s life becomes an astringent- an agent of purification and then prevention. Lemons are sour indeed, but no one can dispute its benefits.
“And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance;”
Romans 5:3
On the other side of the fence, there’s the wild fruit that calls for your attention. All you know is that it looks good. Is it poisonous or not? Sometimes, the question escapes us. Then we reason, “How can something that looks good be bad?”
“Woe to the world because of its stumbling blocks! For it is inevitable that stumbling blocks come; but woe to that man through whom the stumbling block comes!”
Matthew 18:7
Lemons and stumbling blocks… Who can avoid them?
“God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.”
James 1:12 NLT
Tribulation is bitter to one’s soul, but the benefits it produces in us for Christ are undeniable.