Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails (Proverbs 19:21)
There are moments in life that deserve a second look because more often than not life just doesn’t make sense. People can be hurtful and circumstances unpredictable. Truth is, life throws a lot of curve balls.
Some of us ignore our pain and hope it will change on its own. Others obsess over the injustice and try to fix it by any means possible. But regardless of how we are wired to manage such situations we can write a better ending to the story we call life. But it’s only possible when we allow the hand of Providence to pen it.
Our verse speaks to this divine dilemma and why we shouldn’t always take life at face value. In fact, we should challenge the status quo and ask questions. Why? Because these are often defining moments when God is trying to get our attention.
When you bump up against a difficult moment, take another look. Look for God. Search for the lesson. Listen for wisdom. Allow enough room to discover a purpose beyond what you can see in the present pain.
What do you need to own? What can you forgive or reconcile as someone else’s issue? You may have to remove yourself at least temporarily from the person or place that is causing the discomfort in order to create some distance from your feelings. Doing so mitigates uncontrolled reactions and helps manage your emotions.
Be sure to listen long enough to hear the still small voice of wisdom. God has a good plan and a good purpose for you. Once you know the lesson, use it to make one small change in how you handle the same situation next time. This will enable you to write a different and better ending.
Be bold. Be brave. Be free.
Discover & Discuss
- When are you most vulnerable to react versus respond to difficult people or stressful situations?
- Take a second look. Use the verse above as a reminder.
- Ask God to reveal the lesson or the wisdom you need for that moment, and how to apply it to your life.