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Key Bible Verse: We know that the same God who raised our Lord Jesus will also raise us with Jesus and present us to himself along with you 2 Corinthians 4:14. Bonus Reading: 2 Corinthians 4:13-16a

I spoke on a Sunday in the church of an old friend, a pastor and lifetime fan of the Chicago Bulls. It just so happened that on that Sunday the Bulls were competing in the NBA play-offs for a berth in the finals.

My friend was beside himself with excitement and high hopes. But because he is also very conscientious, instead of watching the scheduled game, he videotaped it. Then, when all the services were over, he was able to unwind by watching his "delayed version" of the game.

In the game's early stages, the Bulls were playing poorly and getting killed. Chicago was down something like 20 points in the first half. So I was amazed at the lack of anxiety expressed by my usually fanatical friend. He didn't get upset. He didn't hang his head. He didn't yell at the coach.

"What's with you?" I asked, puzzled, "Aren't you concerned about the outcome of this game?"

"Not a bit," he replied. "One of the fellows at church tonight watched the game this afternoon, and he told me that the Bulls pull it out in the fourth quarter."

God reveals eternal outcomes so that we can face life's greatest trials without overwhelming concern.

—Bryan Chapell in The Wonder of It All

My Response: How could I better see my frustrations in true perspective?

Thought to Apply: Life with Christ is an endless hope; without Him, a hopeless end.—SOURCE UNKNOWN

Adapted from The Wonder of It All (Moody, 2007) by permission.

Copyright © 2007 by the author or Christianity Today International/Men of Integrity magazine. Click here for reprint information on Men of Integrity.

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Prayer for the Week

Work in my life, Lord, causing me to be motivated by eternally significant goals.

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