I have a secret desire to bait someone into a conversation. The setup might go something like this. “How are you doing today”? I hope for a response of “Fine”, or “Doing great”. Then comes my follow up, “Why? Why are you doing great”? So many times the reason behind a person’s great day is because life is easy at the moment and that good things are happening. But what really makes a great day or a great life. Is it because they have avoided sickness or conflict, and that people are speaking well of them?
If life is good only when good things are happening to me, then is life bad when these things are not happening? God is getting me off the roller coaster of evaluating how my life is going based on the situations and events that are happening in my life. I see examples of Christians, both ancient and contemporary, that find peace, meaning, and fulfillment in their daily lives regardless of the ease of their situation.
In the scriptures Paul talks about the hardships of his life. He doesn’t give Christians an excuse to compromise but uses himself as an example of how to view life. “I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through him (Christ) who gives me strength”. Philippians 4:12-13. “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18. It would seem that both of these scriptures point us to a life of peace regardless of what is happening around us. We need a heavenly perspective of our human life. We need to see our life through the eyes of Jesus.
When we see our lives from God’s viewpoint, and not from the pressure or pain of our experiences, we can learn that He is at work in us in every situation we encounter. I have begun to learn that every experience can work to mature and refine me. I have learned more about whom I am. My faith in God is deepening. I am learning to love my enemies and to pray for those who persecute me. I am learning to give thanks when I suffer for being a Christian. I am discovering that suffering in my life produces perseverance and is shaping my character. There are other difficult commands in scripture that I hope God will develop in me in the years ahead. He seems committed to the challenge. If I am wise I will cooperate in the process.
I am learning to rejoice that God is working in my life even though it is at times difficult, unpleasant, or painful. Life is good when God is walking through it with you.
Helps me understand why the Israelites had to wonder in wilderness for so long.
Your first paragraph reminds me why you and my hubby are such good friends even over great distance and time. Thank you for sharing. I have sat and read 3 posts, so I am a little on over load thinking wise, but will continue to process and read. Again, thank you for sharing your walk with all of us! Many blessings my friend!
Thank you for your kind words and comments. You all are a blessing to me and my family.