Apr 21 2009
Life Happens When You’re Not Looking
I stopped to take a moment today. I looked around and realized that life had happened to me like a bucking horse that didn’t understand the meaning of “whoa!” I have had some life situations that have taken the majority of my free time.
However, there is one thing that God so graciously continues to do for me in all of my ups and downs. He takes time to give me teachable moments. Throughout all of my sorrows and trials, He gives me the great gift of introspection to learn from each situation. Each tribulation provides me with clarity and understanding of similar situations that many people face at one time or another.
What has our wonderful Lord taught me throughout this situation? God has taught me that there are many struggles in life. There will always be things that tug at you. Just when things seem like they are moving smoothly, the devil comes along to shake them up in one way or the other. Think of it like this, though…if the devil wasn’t shaking things up, then he must think you are already on his side.
The ways of the Lord should be like a compass; always bringing you back to the true North. I thank God for giving me the ability to discern what is right and what is wrong. I praise Him for the strength that He always provides for me in these difficult times. I praise Him for being my true North.
Just like the wise men looked to the star to guide them to the baby Jesus, God has given each of us that same star in His word. Psalm 119:105 says: Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.
True blessings come from studying His word. God has something to say to you in any situation you are in. The scripture that He puts before you can speak to you if you just open your mind and your heart to it. Words that you have read before will jump out from the page and dance a miraculous blessing into your life for understanding and peace.
It may be hard at first to jump into it with a full heart but consistency is the key. Find time each day to study and He will reward you. Look for Him and He will be there. Expect God to show up and He will. We often don’t see Him because we lose sight of Him. He is always there - waiting to meet us in whatever situation we are in. He is wanting to provide the way out. 1 Corinthians 10:13 says it best: No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.
The introspection I spoke of earlier and the teachable moments come from being in His word and being in Him; knowing that He will be there to guide you even if it takes some time. It is about persistently going after Him and seeking Him to lead you in the direction that He wants you to go.
Dear Lord, I thank you for these teachable moments. I ask that you help me to see them and that you will bless and keep me as I go through trials and tribulations. Help me to consistently use You as my compass; guiding me back to the true North. May I never lose sight that You are always there no matter what the situation may be. In Jesus Name, Amen.
