STOP PRAY TRUST
Last week, we looked at keeping joy in everything we do. That is easy to do when everything is working out perfectly. But in this world, everything does not work out perfectly. Because there is another player on the field. I heard someone use this analogy once. I could score touchdowns all day long, except there is another player on the field trying to stop me. This player doesn't want to see you succeed and doesn't want to see joy. This is the enemy and the enemy of our Lord.
How do I counter that? Look to God. Every time there is a problem, a mishap, anything that is trying to stop your mission. Stop and quietly pray for His help. Then believe He will use this for your good. Maybe it's to protect you from a pitfall, maybe it's to grow a character trait in you. Just trust and know He will use it for good and to glorify His Kingdom.
“And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them." Romans 8:28
In the story of Joseph and his brothers, we see his brothers turning against him and selling him into slavery. People turning against us is hard but our own family turning against us is heart-wrenching. It is hard to handle opposition in our lives. When we are trying to do our best, every task and sometimes every person is coming against us. This can make us feel discouraged. It is in these times when we must stay focused on God. We must trust that positivity will come out even when we don’t see how there could ever be a positive.
Joseph came to understand the positive in his situation. He said to his brothers, "As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today. " Genesis 50:20 Joseph being sold into slavery allowed him to provide food for his brothers, father, and many in his family. What looked to be the worst situation of his life. Turns out it was the best situation for everyone. Trust that God has a positive. Maybe not immediately, maybe it is best for others, and maybe you will never understand why God allowed a situation. Know that God is for you and He works for good.
This week, I want to give us another challenge. When things become topsy-turvy, and when problems come. And yes, they will come.
1. Stop quietly pray for God's help
2. Repeat, " I don't understand but Lord, I know You are either teaching me something or protecting me from something but I know You are working for good, and I choose to trust You.
3. When He helps you remember to say thank you, Lord.
May each of you have a blessed and joyful week.
Remember to:
STOP
PRAY
TRUST