“May you live in interesting times,” is said to be a curse. Our times are interesting indeed! But could this actually be a blessing?
The Bible says that we are to count it all joy when we encounter troubles and trials for when we succeed in facing them, it develops patience and good character. That equation doesn’t add up for most of us.
But, if you compare your life to a long car ride, what makes the best scenery? Flat plains or soaring mountains? It is easy to walk along a level path, but much more exhilarating to climb the heights of Mount Everest or descend into the depths of the Grand Canyon. Those treks require that we open our eyes, sharpen our wits and constantly look to a higher power! They also provide a better story once safely home again.
Yet, halfway up the slope or bearing the brutal heat of the valley, the voyage may not seem so glamorous. A lonely death buried in ice or as food for the buzzards seems imminent, but if we keep going we will come out more able not only to face danger, but to guide others through it’s treachery.
It is fascinating and amazing how God takes everything in our lives and weaves those experiences into such a beautiful tapestries. Like a musical masterpiece, the minor chords–so jarring on their own–blend with the sweet notes of the melody to make a symphony so rich and textured that it takes your breath away!
Are you happy that you live in interesting times? How might you, like Queen Esther (Esther 4:14) have been born for “such a time as this?”
Thank you, Jesus, that you do not weave the tapestry of my life randomly. You have a plan and your plans will not be thwarted. I am glad you are not surprised by my sin and find a place of beauty for my most heinous mess-ups. Help me to step back and take in the magnificence of your handiwork rather than wincing at the minor chord or fixating on parts not yet complete. Help me to give you space to do your best work. Thank you that my life’s picture is woven into so many others because no story alone could ever be as beautiful as the whole of history!
And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. Romans 8:28 NLT
When you go through deep waters I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you. Isaiah 43:2 NLT
Consider it nothing but joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you fall into various trials. Be assured that the testing of your faith [through experience] produces endurance [leading to spiritual maturity, and inner peace]. James 1:2-3 AMP
Cool Like Christ 