Every body is going through something.
This is a realization that I came to many, many years ago. When someone comes at you in anger, disappointment, or with accusations that you know are not true, it is natural to get defensive and to dislike or distrust that person. I came to understand, however, some times when that happens, what they’re angry at may not be about you at all.
Perception
‘the act of perceiving or of receiving impressions by the senses; or that act or process of the mind which makes known an external object. In other words, the notice which the mind takes of external objects. We gain a knowledge of the coldness and smoothness of marble by perception. In philosophy, the faculty of perceiving; the faculty or peculiar part of man’s constitution, by which he has knowledge through the medium or instrumentality of the bodily organs. Notion; idea. The state of being affected or capable of being affected by something external.
This experiment discovers perception in plants.’ Websters’s 1828 Dictionary
We perceive things by our senses; or we take on notions or ideas. When we experience difficult times or difficult people – do we know the true source of the problem. I think we need to see beyond the circumstances. Some one may misinterpret your words or actions and react accordingly. We cannot control what another does or how they think.
Forgiveness and Redemption
When some one has misused you or misunderstood you, are you ready to forgive them. Or, are you willing to forgive – no matter what? Can a relationship be restored – I most certainly believe so and have experienced that for myself. Do you lose any thing by being willing to forgive or to redeem? Most certainly not. In fact, you stand so much more to gain. I think it’s imperative for our peace of mind to forgive even if the relationship may never be restored or recovered. Forgiveness does so much more for you.
Expect the Unexpected
Each day is a new beginning and it can bring forth both good and bad things. In one single day I had to deal with a very sick husband, a daughter who had an accident about an hour away and a difficult Board meeting whereby I, as Chairperson, had to persuade the Board to make and accept certain decisions. During this meeting, a discontented Board member levied some accusations that were unfounded. Yet, we had to move forward. I had begun the day with a good Bible study and prayer time. Yet, during all of this – all at once – I did cry. I realized much later that it’s o.k. to cry. It’s important to let out your hurt and fears.
Put on the Armor
Not too long before in our morning Bible study, I encouraged my Sister-in-Law to remember that we are facing battles every day…we need to put on the whole armor….
Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Our strength comes from God.
Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. Through God, we can overcome anything and anyone.
For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Some of our battles go much deeper than what’s going on at the surface. We must see beyond what’s just before us.
Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Make up your mind that no matter what – you will serve God and stand through any thing – through Him.
Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; Truth – it is important that we always move, act and speak in the truth – without truth – we cannot withstand. I have always believed and lived by, ‘it is never right to do wrong to do right’. The righteousness we are able to stand on is not our own – it is from God Himself.
And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; We are encouraged to be at peace as much as we are able to with every one. That is, we hold onto righteousness, truth and are willing to forgive. We should always be prepared to share the good news of redemption through Christ…which brings ultimate peace to all who accept it.
Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. As we exercize our faith, just like a shield, we can withstand many ‘fiery darts’ whether they come from people or events. Faith can move mountains.
And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Through our knowledge of salvation and the leading of the Spirit – we can discern right actions and right words. We should always pray for wisdom in all we say and do.
Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; Prayer is such a gift. I believe, that God’s plan will come to fruition – no matter what. Prayer, gives us the opportunity to open our hearts to that will and open our minds to placing all of our care upon God. We can petition God for our needs – but, we can also lay aside all concerns and trust them to Him…Prayer not only changes things, it changes us.
Ephesians 6:10-18
Are you experiencing difficult moments or difficult people. Know, that through God, you can work through these things. Difficult times do have a purpose in your life. They will strengthen you. I think of Joseph. How that a young teenager, who was betrayed by his brothers, sold into slavery, inprisoned, and ultimately redeemed to make a difference for the whole world. Throughout all, he kept his integrity and faith in God. I believe through each event he became stronger. There’s Job, David, Daniel and more…we have so many examples of how God can use both the good and the bad events in lives to strengthen and to further His plan.
Learn to stand, plant your feet firm in your faith…through God, truly, all things are possible.