Challenges & Character

Often we are faced with trials in our lives. At first we are able to meet them with a positive attitude and a fairly confident feeling that this is just a “bump in the road” and all will be well in short order. Then, unexpectedly, we are faced with a new challenge and start to think…certainly I am to learn a lesson for my life in the midst of this “double whammy.” I’ll make the best of it and see what I how I can grow from it. While still grappling with this “trial” we are hit with another unexpected “opportunity for growth.” We may say – well, they say bad news comes in threes. That’s three, so I must be headed out of the woods now. But that may not be the case at all and we are to hold our heads high with thanksgiving for … we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us. Romans 5:3b-5 NASB

Whatever we are going through our situation is common to man. We are not alone, but can look forward with great expectation and courage to greater character on the other side…and even in the midst.

 

Look out beyond yourself to bless another today – yes – in the midst of your own trials and allow the love that has been poured out upon you to fall upon another. You may not even know about their trials, but what a blessing to them AND back to you.

Now go about your day seeking to bless and smile. J

Place your hope above

At this time of year – and truthfully throughout the year – we will be disappointed, let down or unpleasantly surprised by another’s words, actions or lack thereof. Our hope is misplaced when placed in a person – for we are but human and prone to err. But if our hope remains in our Creator and Savior, then we are standing on sturdy ground with room to launch.

How would you treat people if you assumed they were good? If we gave one another the benefit of the doubt, how would it change the way we treated each other? Would we be more generous with our time and possessions? You know today you can smile at someone who has brought you grief because your trust and hope is not in them. It is in the Lord, who loves you without measure. So walk today with confidence. You are a child of the King and no one can take that away from you. And next week a good portion of the world will celebrate the Son’s birthday – whose suffering on your account made you a joint heir. Run with it!!!

Live, breathe, smile, laugh and celebrate this day ON PURPOSE because….Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles, they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:31 NIV