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When There Are Things We Cannot Change
When There Are Things We Cannot Change
Although it may be hard to admit, there are many things we cannot change. No matter how hard we try, some people resist change; some organizations refuse to admit problems and some leaders refuse to listen to advice. Instead, of consistently beating one’s proverbial head up against a wall, Christians have a better option. Paul wrote, "Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition (definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God. And God’s peace [shall be yours, that tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and being content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace] which transcends all understanding shall garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:6-7). The following are a few guiding principles for appropriating that powerful promise.
Remember! Our Primary Responsibility Is To Obey God’s Will (Jeremiah 29:11)
We must ask the Lord for the wisdom, grace and calm to learn, accept, and obey His primary will for our lives. We must not try to run ahead of the Lord’s plans for our lives.
Remember Jesus Christ
The Lord Jesus accomplished 100% of the will of God even though He did not heal everyone. Jesus did not even spend time trying to change the political climate of Roman oppressors. Instead, Jesus said, "It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when sown upon the ground, is the smallest of all seeds upon earth; yet after it is own, it grows up and becomes the greatest of all garden herbs and puts out large branches, so that the birds of the air are able to make nests and dwell in its shade" (Mark 4:31-32). Look at life through the eyes of Jesus and see what can become of our efforts.
Remember The Promises Of God (2 Corinthians 1:20-22)
Take an inventory of all the precious promises we have in Christ and confidently know He will fulfill everyone.
Remember God’s Priorities (Matthew 6:33)
There are many good things we can do, but ask the Lord for wisdom in being able to contribute to His priorities. There are many activities that are not essential. However, God’s priorities include worship, evangelism, making disciples, and benevolence to needy saints. When we are seeking first His interests, other problems seem to take care of themselves. The Lord is eager to fight our battles for us. Remember God’s training program for our lives. The Lord allows many things to come into our lives for purposes that are greater than our minds can comprehend. Isaiah wrote, "For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, says the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts" (Isaiah 55:8-9). Remain open, teachable, and flexible to allow the Lord to mold our character into the image of Christ. He is the potter and we are the clay. The clay has no right to say to the Potter, "Why did you make me like this (Romans 9:21)?”
Remember! Godly Men & Women Before Us Have Endured Much Worse (Hebrews 11:36-40)
Not all heroes of the faith experienced immediate gratification. Some fell victim to their circumstances in the will of God. Yet, all of them were blessed of God.
Remember! God’s Grace Is Sufficient For Any Problem (2 Corinthians 12:9-10)
When we let the grace of God be our sufficiency, we will enjoy sweet rest of mind, body, and in our emotions!
