What about you?

This morning I was reading my daily devotion from Proverbs31.org (these are GREAT, by the way!) and I wanted to share a portion of it with you. You guys are now well aware of my deal with Endo over these past few years. I have been very transparent with my true feelings and how, even in the darkest moments, there was hope that only can come from Jesus. This devotion puts into words the reflection of my heart. Here is a portion of the devotion, but you can go HERE for the entire thing.


(This is written about Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus) ~Written by: Rachel Olsen

He just couldn’t see how his current circumstances were part of God’s plan for his life.

But Joseph was also a man who didn’t fully understand God’s plan, and he almost missed being part of it.

What at first looked like a huge problem, a troubling circumstance, a total reputation-wrecker to Joseph, turned out to be the most glorious thing in his life when seen from God’s perspective.
From this new viewpoint, Joseph saw what an honor it was to bear this burden. What a thrill to raise and know God’s own Son!

While we may not get an angel visitation, we can pause and consider this same possibility in our lives. There have been many instances when my circumstances seemed like a detour, or even destruction, of my plans. At those times I can’t imagine God bringing anything good out of what just seems like trouble.
But the story of Joseph brings me hope. It reminds me that God’s ways aren’t my ways. And sometimes in our greatest difficulties we find our greatest opportunities and blessed responsibilities. And he would have missed the life-defining lesson that God’s plans aren’t always logical in human eyes, but they can always be trusted.

Is there a problem you are facing today? Is it possible this could be part of God’s plans for you?

Dear Lord, thank You for Jesus. And thank You that Your plans for us are plans for good and not for evil – to give us a future and a hope. I trust You today with my life and my circumstances. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Application Steps:
Take time to read Joseph’s story in the gospel accounts of Jesus’ birth. Then process your concerns and troubles with God in prayer, and ask Him to help you replace your perspective with His.
Reflections:
Will I trust God with my present circumstances?
What step of faith can I make today so that I don’t miss God’s plans for me?
Power Verses:
2 Corinthians 1:10, “He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us again. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us …” (NIV)

Jeremiah 29:11, “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” (NIV)

Proverbs 19:21, “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails.” (NIV)

Praying for you today, sweet friend. As we go through this Christmas week, I pray that you will lean into the arms of our Savior more than ever before. Never forget that His birthday we celebrate is all due to His immense love for YOU and me. He came to earth so that we could come to Him. Praying you draw near to Him and bask in His love for you this Christmas week...and forever!