Do you blame God or pursue God when the unexpected happens? Life is full of ups and downs, and yet we too often expect an easier life. God wants us to use this time to deepen our attachment to him, to examine our faith, to teach us to rely on him in ways we previously have not.
I find through the eyes of observers that my own self-seeking behaviors are far more present than my God-Centered behaviors. I find reward in people-pleasing and have trouble saying no. I often time find myself napping or saying yes to hanging out with a friend when I should be spending time with my family. Have missed God’s will for my life? What is He calling me to at this time? Is this a season to do as we want or a time to seek Him? I think many of us struggle to protect our rights or think or our own conveniences when asked to do something we do not want to or do not agree with. I think looking at scripture we are reminded to love others as we are loved. It is not about being right or comfortable. We are called to ask, “What would Jesus do?”
2 Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. 3 For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. 4 So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing. James 1:2-4 NLT
I want to have confidence in God when making decisions, to be dependent on God and on his abilities and provision, I want my life to be focused on God and his activities. I want humility before God, denying self, seeking first God’s kingdom and his righteousness, and seeking God’s perspective in all circumstances. My prayer is that I take things that seem uncomfortable and let them become a catalyst for rejoicing and to grow closer to Him.
-Kristi Schutter
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