"Velvet Steel"!

Perhaps we would not generally think of "velvet" and "steel" together. Velvet is smooth and soft while steel is cold and hard. Such seems more to be opposite descriptions. However, when addressing the U.S. Congress, Carl Sandburg (1878-1967, American writer and editor best know for his poetry) described Abraham Lincoln as being a man of "velvet steel". Is there a sense in which such ought to become the description of our life as well?

As Paul was bringing his first Corinthian letter to a close, he urged. . .
"(13) Be watchful, STAND FIRM in the faith, ACT LIKE MEN, BE STRONG. (14) LET ALL THAT YOU DO BE DONE IN LOVE." ( 1 Cor. 16:13-14 ESV)

Each of these is stated by Paul in the Greek imperative. They are of necessity: the watchfulness, standing firm, being like men (of courage), being strong, and doing in love. It is a picture of BALANCE and is truly all in a sense of bringing "steel" and "velvet" together. Standing strong as "steel" while still acting in the "velvet" softness of godly love. Strength to stand firm, but yet remaining touchable. Being people of unwavering conviction, yet able to be gentle in the manner of living. Tough, but tender. Strong, but soft. Firm, but flexible. Convicted, but caring. A giant in faithfulness, but gentle in spirit.

Such BALANCE is a sign of maturing in the faith; no longer being the infants Paul had accused them of being earlier. ( 1 Corinthians 3:1; also Ephesians 4:14) These are qualities of character we need to aim toward growing in as well. May we continue to seek to develop such BALANCE in our life so as to remain unmovable in the Will of God, while still being moved by the cares and condition of those around us. When it comes to being Christians, let us be the strong loving kind.

Have a great day LIVING VELVETY STRONG!
Carl

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