For you, O God, tested us; You refined us like silver. You brought us into prison and laid burdens on our backs. You let men ride over our heads; we went through fire and water, but You brought us to a place of abundance. Psalm 66:10-12
I have recently been going through some times that have challenged me. It gives me comfort to know that it is all part of a process. Just as the year has seasons, our lives have ups and downs and the way we respond to them is the test for our character. I’m afraid that I haven’t always lived up to my best through this process. It is very easy these days to fall into the victim mentality and whine about your problems. There is even a small amount of gain that can be accomplished through these actions. What most people do not realize is that once you are labeled a victim you will be left behind by those who are moving towards greater victories. Victims are not dependable when the challenge becomes too large.
I have chosen to do everything I can to take responsibility for my actions and accept what rewards or setbacks may come my way. I feel that even losing can be considered a victory if you view it correctly. What did I learn? How can this be avoided or overcome in the future? Am I stronger or wiser with this experience? These things will set apart your actions from those who internalize failure and never hold themselves accountable.
In the Bible I love to read of David. He personifies all of the failures and blessings that each one of us have available. He is the forgotten younger brother. He is a brash young man. He is a favorite, then enemy of a king. He is remembered and protected by a friend who just so happens to be the king’s son. (I have always admired the strength of Jonathan to see God’s plan for David over himself. He was able to assist David but also stand beside his father, Saul, to the end.) He was like a hunted animal when Saul sought to destroy him. He was the King. Yet even as the king he continued to have failures. The difference with David was that he always admitted his failures and asked God’s forgiveness. When you are the king it would be very easy to fall into a feeling of self-importance. In your life be careful to recognize the difference between confidence and arrogance is gratitude. David had problems but he knew where to go with them. David knew the real King.
If you think your pain is unbearable and unfair read the book of Job. It is a very interesting aside in the Bible that speaks of one mans devotion to God. Satan believes that he can turn this man from his love of God. There are some horrible things that happen to Job and then worst of all his friends abandon him and blame God for the atrocities. Job however remains steadfast and everyone is convinced of his relationship in the end. I hope to not have to go through what Job did but it does remind me that God is always there patiently allowing us to bear up to the hardships and bear witness to His presence in our lives. If you let Him down you are showing support for the enemy. Satan wants you to not only give up but to do it in a very public way so that he can use you for his purposes. Who do you want to be an example of?
