Blend the real with the ideal.
| posted 1/30/2009
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Being content doesn't mean wearing rose-colored glasses—it means viewing life through God's perspective and accepting His grip on reality. Throughout Scripture, God shows you what's real (especially in prophecy and narrative!), yet challenges you with what's ideal.
Life this side of heaven is full of detours and problems, and realistically you can expect your share. But you can be content even though they exist. God encourages you to ask Him to rescue you, and He often provides a way out—whether it's through a person who knows what to do, a thought that occurs to you, or an unexpected opportunity.
But because real life is often trying, you also need to focus on the ideal. The psalmist repeatedly says how you should praise God for His love (107:2,15,21,31), remembering that He's in charge. God's love is the mightiest force on this earth, able to deliver and change circumstances quickly. As you keep your mind on this truth and praise Him for it, you'll be filled with hope—even when life is difficult. (See also Ecclesiastes 6:1-9; Daniel 2:20-21; 2 Peter 1:3-15.)
Good Words to Remember:
Oh, that man would give thanks to the Lord for His goodness, and for His wonderful works for the children of men! Psalm 107:8
Today's Challenge:
How do you balance the real and the ideal?
Copyright 2001 by the author or Christianity Today International/Christian Bible Studies.
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