Retro - SE StudentsSample

The scent of vinegar is no joke. Whether someone cleans or cooks with vinegar, the smell is strong and sour. The inside of your nose may feel like it is burning, even by just thinking about the smell of vinegar.

Now picture olive oil. It is a rich and thick liquid. In Jesus’ day, olive oil had many uses, such as burning it to create heat and light. Oil would have also been applied to someone’s head to signifying that person as being set apart for God.

Vinegar and oil are such opposite liquids that they don’t mix together on their own. If you poured both into the same bottle, the oil would sit on the bottom and the vinegar would rest on top.

This picture of vinegar on top of oil can be a valuable way to think about prayer. Sometimes, life can feel out of control, and talking to God just seems like too much. In those moments, feel the freedom to pour out the vinegar to God. Tell Him what is troubling you. Tell Him what is harsh and what's rattling your nerves and spirit. “I feel alone, forgotten, overlooked…”

Pour out all the vinegar, and then you will find that underneath is the oil, glistening and thick. “God sees me. God knows me. God is with me. God is good and is working for my good.” The oil is the richness of His promises. It is the words from a God who never fails us.

It is okay to admit there is vinegar, to be honest about your feelings and fears. Pour it out. God can take it.