IS IT WORTH DOING THINGS GOD’S WAY?

Now that we are seeking to act with honesty in all our affairs, it's discouraging to face obstacles in our path while we see others lying and manipulating and getting what they want without the hassle we are experiencing.  Is it worth doing things God's way?  We are not the first ones to experience inconvenience and suffering as we wait for God to bring about His good plan for our life.  Thousands of years ago the writer of these words from the Bible had a similar experience.

But as for me, my feet had almost slipped; I had nearly lost my foothold. For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. Surely in vain I have kept my heart pure and have washed my hands in innocence. All day long I have been afflicted and every morning brings new punishments.  (Psalm 73:2-3, 13-14 NIV)

We don't need to pretend that we don’t have raw thoughts and emotions, but we do need to learn how to deal with them.  Along with the writer of these words we need to bring our observations and feelings before God and ask Him to show us what's going on in us and how we are meant to respond.

When I tried to understand all this, it troubled me deeply till I entered the sanctuary of God; then I understood their final destiny. (Psalm 73:16-17 NIV)

Only God can help us see things in perspective and give us wisdom in what we ought to do.  As we faithfully put our trust in Him, God has promised to give us a future with hope.  Whatever we do, or see others do, is only an event in time.  However, God knows the future impact of the choices we make. We do not!

God, in His wisdom, will quiet our hearts and show us how to find rest and security.  We often won't see the result of our obedience in the moment but if we open our heart to God and reaffirm our trust in His goodness in our lives, God will be delighted to give us the strength we need for today and provide what we need for tomorrow – in ways we might expect – or in some other surprising and better way.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, You are good and You are wise.  Help me to trust both Your care for me and Your promise to give me a future with hope, regardless of what I might experience in my life or see happening in the lives of those around me.  Amen