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The Scriptures encourage us to “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus (1 Thessalonians 5:18)." I think it is interesting that the Apostle Paul wrote this command from a prison cell while he had chains on his ankles.

As I reflect on the verses below from throughout the Bible, I’m reminded that God is in control and moves us forward in our growth and walk with Christ Jesus regardless of our circumstances. There are no accidents in the Christian life.

“A person’s steps are directed by the Lord.” -Proverbs 20:24

“In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” -Proverbs 16:9

“The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him ... .” -Psalm 37:23

What is your attitude in seasons of joy, pain, happiness, sorrow, celebration, and difficulties? Do you rest and abide in God’s goodness, or are hurt and anger controlling your heart as you ask, “Why me?” Do you question God’s love for you or think you can’t go on?

The Bible is filled with pain, sorrow, and hurt, but if we give God time to work, we will see beauty and love in His ways.

We all go through ugly parts of life, but we can still experience God’s goodness and mercy as He pours out grace to each of us in the midst of our pain. It is life changing to praise Christ Jesus in our sorrow, especially when it is inflicted by those we love most.

Praising God in our hurts quickens our transformation into Christlikeness.

This is God’s ultimate agenda for His children—for us to be changed into the image of Christ and prove to the world that God’s will is good and perfect (Romans 8:29, 12:1-2).

Jesus modeled this perfectly at the cross. He knew the Father sought His highest good and trusted the Father completely in the midst of pain, sorrow, suffering, and humiliation.

At the cross, Jesus saw the hand of His Father when He said, “‘Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing (Luke 23:34).’" Days later, God raised Jesus from the dead and made a way for you and I to stand in His presence forever.

Christ’s resurrection made the way for the coming day in which “every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth ... (Philippians 2:10)."

Today, step out by faith, step into God’s truth and wait for your sovereign Lord to work a glorious chapter in your life no matter what.


 

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