Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. –Hebrews 12:2 NKJV
In the last blog, we learnt that suffering, trials, and troubles will inevitably be part of our lives. However, these tribulations cannot be compared to the glory that lies ahead for believers. “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.” Romans 8:18 (NKJV)
Looking unto Jesus means fixing our eyes trustingly on Him not on our circumstances. But it’s so hard not to think about or focus on what we’re going through even when we can’t do anything to change the situation. Focusing on the situation will almost rob us of our joy, strength, and peace. But focusing on Jesus, God renews our strength, joy, and peace. “The Lord gives his people strength. The LORD blesses them with peace.” Psalms 29:11 (NLT)
When “in the middle”, it is so important to adopt a right attitude. An attitude of unrelenting and unflinching trust and faith in the promises of God. An attitude that sees the light at the end of a dark tunnel. An attitude that refuses to be controlled by our disappointments, people, or things.
We can be encouraged by the story of Joseph. Joseph found himself “in the middle” after being betrayed by his brothers who sold him into slavery. He was lied on by Mrs Potiphar and then imprisoned for an offence he did not commit. He was also forgotten by the king’s butler when he had the opportunity to put in a good word to the king on his behalf.
But in all these situations, Joseph was very hopeful that God had a better plan for him. Joseph could have been bitter but instead, his attitude was complete, confident trust in God. He was confident that God will see him through his ordeal. God indeed did not forsake him but elevated him from prison to palace, rising to the position of second in command to the king.
We don’t know what will happen tomorrow and we certainly can’t control all our circumstances, but we can control how we respond to them. It’s in our hands whether we allow a situation to make us stronger or weaker. Make us better or bitter, full of faith or full of fear.
God who declares the end from the beginning, will not always answer our prayers the way we expect. But we can be sure that He is working out all things for our good. “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)
Whatever you may be dealing with right now, whatever may be your “in the middle” situation, see it as a period of transition. You are transitioning between your current position to your place of glory.
Stay blessed,
LaraLex
Hills and Valleys 