The Hem

“Moreover, as for me, God forbid that I should sin against the Lord in ceasing to pray for you: but I will teach you the good and the right way.” (1 Samuel 12:23)

The student thought, what is the big deal about a hem? It looked okay to her, but the teacher disagreed with her assessment. She had to rip it out and “do it right” because her final grade depended on a correctly sewn garment. As a young student, my friend didn't understand the significance of that hem—not then.

 The Israelites complained to God’s prophet Samuel; they wanted a king like the pagan nations. Imagine the rejection God must have felt since He was their King. So, God appointed a king to rule over them. God “voiced” His displeasure over their decision by sending rain and thunder on the day of harvest, and they feared Him, but not enough to repent of their rebellion. Samuel told the people that even though they wrongly demanded a king, he would not stop praying for them, continue to teach them the right way to live, and remind them to fear the Lord and serve Him. But the people constantly struggled with faithfulness to God—they kept “doing it wrong” repeatedly. They wanted that which was wrong; they were told it was wrong but refused to “make it right” (repent). Consequences: From that time forward, they suffered under the rule of evil kings more than those who did right in the sight of the Lord.

 What is so important about a hem? The hem is the finishing touch of an item, making it complete. A poorly sewn hem is noticeable, and the underside stitches, though not visible, are as crucial as the topside as they lock in place the top stitches. Looped or skipped under-stitches can catch a heel or other object, compromising the topside stitches. Sewing the hem properly from the beginning will save time, energy, and frustration.

My friend received a favorable final grade because she re-hemmed the apron as instructed. The apron hem, decades later, became a teachable moment that she passed onto others. Through the study of God’s Word, she learned the biblical principle that it is important to end well; it matters. Whether your task is sewing an apron, finishing a paper before the deadline, cleaning the house, or, as Moses, leading masses of complaining people, each of them requires dedicated work. You can complete a task at hand well or with a “this will do” attitude. The course of action you choose decides the result of your work.

Has God reminded you of an incomplete or flawed life-hem? He wants you to finish it. In doing so, you may need to “rip it out and do it right”—only then will your “hem” be complete. Avoid the consequences of a poorly sewn hem. Follow your Teacher’s instructions; once you finish your hem, He may use your experience as a teachable moment for others.

Starting well and finishing what you started is essential, but more importantly, to end well. What would you prefer to hear, “Rip it out and do it right?” or “Well done, good and faithful servant. . . enter thou into the joy of thy Lord?” (Matthew 25:23) I choose the latter.

(A personal rendition of The Hem posted by Carla Daves Troxclair. Used by permission.)