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Single Minded
by Michelle Brinson
James 1:2-3 NIV
When you face a difficult situation, do you find yourself rejoicing? I know I don't. It seems like a contradiction doesn't it? But according to God's word, we should consider it joy whenever we face trials.
Notice it doesn't say "if" you face trials… it says "whenever."
Jesus also tells us in John 16:33, "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
I'm not sure why I thought when I became a Christian all the bad things would stop happening. No one told me that… but for some reason I thought it came along with this new life. However, as I studied God's word… I began to see it was all in how I looked at the trial I was facing – not that I wouldn't face any.
James 1:12 NIV
God is telling us it's all about how we choose to deal with the trials we face. If we turn to God while facing this trial, He will use the trial, He will use us – to make us more like Christ.
Trials have the power to either draw us closer to God or drive us further away. It's all in how you choose to face them.
1 Peter 1:6-7 NIV
I know now that with each trial I face – God is purifying me. It's often a very painful process… but worth the prize – "the crown of life".
And as hard as it may be… whether you are facing a trial – don't be surprised. Instead of asking "Why me?" – ask yourself a harder question… "Why not me?"
Bad things are going to happen… God has told us we will face trouble and to not be surprised. It doesn't mean we have to like it. In fact, when I've faced trials I've been pretty angry about it. And I believe God wants to hear my honesty in my prayers so I'm not afraid to tell Him how I feel about it. It doesn't mean He will change my situation or circumstance. But He does comfort me.
It's taken a while, but I've learned a hard lesson… it's not about me. The world does not revolve around me. God is the center of the universe – not me. It's about Him and it's about me becoming more like Him.
1 Peter 4:12-13 NIV
As hard as it may be for you, why don't you make a list of the trials you feel you are currently going through. Thank God for each one. Thank God for the joy that transcends each one. Thank Him in advance for the joy and confidence and patience you'll gain when the test is over. And then ask God for the grace and wisdom to pass the test. I think you'll be amazed at the difference. And notice… it's not about God changing your situation or circumstance – it's about God changing you and your perspective.
Father God, thank you for each and every trial I've faced. As painful as each of them has been, I am grateful for them because each of them has drawn me closer to You. Lord, my prayer today is to see less of me and more of You. Amen!
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Michelle sees her marriage as a ministry and desires for it and herself to be used by God. She and her husband and son are active members of their church. She is also passionate about spreading the good news locally as well as internationally via mission trips to East Africa and wherever else the Lord leads.
Michelle is a talented writer and speaker who prays God will use her in sharing His hope and truths to those who are hurting and in need of love.
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