I listened as the young college student let his story unfold. Even as the wonder and joys, challenges and unknowns came out in his story, I wondered if he realized how involved God is in his life. Candidly, I am not sure he has noticed. In the midst of uncertainty, the Spirit nudged him into doing something outside the norm. In the chaos of his challenges, he continues to find hope. His life is filled with opportunities. Even as I begin to let the words of reprimand form with my lips, I find myself looking in the mirror. Am I any different? Did I notice God in my life today? Did I listen to the whispers of compassion, feel the touch of mercy, and let the shower of hope get through to me.
As I look at how this student is reacting, I find myself being reminded of key fundamentals.
There is great wisdom in responding to the immediate. You and I have many things going on in our lives. Rather than question everything, simply respond. Follow an old example; “the handcuffs fell off his wrists. The angel said, ‘Get dressed. Put on your shoes.’ Peter did it.” (Acts 12.8)
Focus more on the opportunities and less on the obstacles. The answer lies in acknowledging problems and barriers as points to work around while working on the potential wins in your life.
Enjoy the life that you have. In the midst of pain, frustrations, and anxiety, we are living. Letting the wonder of it all, the beauty that comes into one’s life, and the gifts that appear, fill us with happiness is one of the best decisions we can make.
Our world today is complex, chaotic, and filled with uncertainties. At the same time, there are more opportunities, people working to make the world a better place, and ways to “win” than at any time in history. You and I can be a difference, to those around us as well as to our self. We hold freedom within that gives us the keys. Everything is possible.
