Recently, we learned that 'God
means for you to be where you are.' Were you relieved OR did you feel a little
bit betrayed? Why would He want me here? And not just me ... why does He want
THE WHOLE WORLD in this situation?
Author Robert Morgan challenges us to
reconsider the questions we're asking. "Instead of asking, 'How can I get
out of this mess?' try asking, 'How can God be glorified in this situation?'
One's perspective is entirely changed by the spiritual realities behind that
approach. It's like switching on floodlights in a dark stadium" (21).
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You might remember that Jesus faced a
pretty tough scenario as He entered the Garden of Gethsemane with his disciples
shortly after his ‘last supper’ with them. His agonizing prayer of 'Not my will
but yours be done' actually started with 'if there's another way this can go,
I'm open to it.' But His anguish-filled submission to the Father's plan modeled
for us what it means keep our focus on the bigger, better purpose.
It wasn’t a coincidence that we walked
through the first part of our corona-virus quarantines during the weeks leading
up to Easter. Perhaps you took the time to read through one (or all) of the
Gospels to be reminded of Jesus' journey of purpose and sacrifice, not comfort
and self-seeking. (If you didn’t then, you’ve still got time now!)
Robert Morgan points out that "God
doesn't waste suffering. If He leads us into impossible spots, He will deliver
us in His own time, in His own way, and for His name's sake" (24).
Have you encountered past heartaches
which, in time, resulted in your good and God's glory? Be thinking of a word of
testimony you can share with your small group (or email me!). Your 'survival'
encourages and acts as a reminder that God can -- and will -- do it again!
Questions to Ponder: (RSR, 30)
· According to
Exodus 14:3-4, why did God lead His people to the edge of the sea?
· Can you think of
other biblical heroes or people you currently know who faced great problems in
the past that later turned out for their good and for God’s glory?
· Have you
encountered past heartaches which, in time, resulted in your good and God’s
glory? (Yes, I know this is the same question as above but hopefully you’ll
take a moment and actually answer it now.)
· Why not compose a
simple prayer right now to reflect a changed perspective on the way you’ve been
viewing your Red Sea dilemma?
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