Circumstances change, life is always moving, and that is
something we cannot control or force into cessation. However, we have the
ability to neutralize its effect on our heart and inward condition. There are
plenty of biblical examples of people who defied the odds and refused to be at
the mercy of what life threw at them. Characters like Ruth, Daniel, and Paul,
just to name a few. Of course, it’s hard to bypass Joseph when on this subject
due to his impeccable character. It remained
intact while the shifting sands of life was rapidly changing at lightning
speed, yet inside of him was a calm and unyielding to the pressures of life.
Even though Joseph was sold into slavery by his envious
brothers - he didn't let slavery get in him. He was thrown into prison for
something he didn't do because someone told a lie - but he didn't get bitter. Joseph
was in prison for 14 years baking, like bread in the oven, until he was done
cooking and ready for the Lord's use. During his whole time in prison he never
let prison get in him. He held onto his faith and his thankfulness. You may
find yourself in the midst of many troubles, surrounded by pressures and
threats from people and things - but you don't have to let the troubles in you.
Feed your faith, hold onto your thankfulness. Hold on!
Let your spirit feed hungrily on the Word of God. You may be
feeling frail, weak, and lacking health, but permit the Word to nourish you
back to being whole again.
Psalm 55:22 Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.Isaiah 41:10 Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.
Philippians 4:6-76 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
One final note of inspiration for today. I said this
recently and believe the Lord was shaking my own heart to compliance with his
will. I pray it be a blessing to you to.
Don't give
past failures the power to neutralize your future successes. Don't abort
possibilities and goals by building monuments to past experiences that brought
no reward. Instead, learn, persevere, and try again. Never give up what you
know is possible!
- Reuben Egolf