When Things Go Wrong, Don’t Go With Them

Life can turn around some sharp curves, making it difficult to maintain an optimistic outlook. It is often challenging to face life’s unknowns and stay upbeat. Don’t be disappointed with yourself; at some point, everyone needs encouragement that things will work out. Neither allow yourself to be engulfed by the high tide of doubt. The fact you don’t have an answer to an issue doesn’t mean there is no answer. The Bible offers spiritual light in those dark times.

In Gethsemane when facing the cross, Jesus prayed. If with the events of eternity swirling around Him He needed to pray, so do we in troublesome times. Ironically it is often at such a time we assume authority and act as though we can handle the issues if we just worry and fret enough.

Remember this brief Irish blessing, “If things go wrong, don’t go with them.”

Jesus gave us this anchor for stormy times: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27) Repeat that to yourself several times, meditate on it.

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” (Colossians 3:15)

Take a break and prayerfully “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” (I Peter 5:7)

When you do you can say “When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.” (Psalm 94:19)

Now “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”  (Matthew 6:34) Worry about tomorrow does nothing to improve the conditions of today.

Then you can say in retrospect “When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.”(Proverbs 3:5-6)

“I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.” (Psalm 34:4)

Resolve that, as of now, you will “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”  (Proverbs 3:5-6)

When the superstructure of our life seems to cave in on us Scripture can help us cope. If overwhelmed by conditions, never underestimate the power of Scripture to help you rise out of the crowd mired in anxiety.

These dark days afford an opportunity to quit playing defense and go on the offence. Don’t just inhale faith stimulating truths, exhale so that others may be encouraged by your faith.

God rules, let all the earth rejoice …. and you, too.

When things are going good many like to quote, “This is the day the Lord has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it.” To quote it fervently when things aren’t going good builds up you and those around you. Pray, “Lord make me a blessing today.”