Where are you looking?
by Gemma Gardner
After a long, hot spell of weather here in the north west of England, we’re now experiencing a mixture of sunshine and showers. The sky is constantly changing from dark clouds to bright blue. As I write this, the sun is shining brightly. It really amazes me that when I walk into the kitchen, it can appear very dark with black clouds, but then when I walk into the lounge, it’s bright sunshine. The same house, the same sky, yet different views, depending on which window I am looking out of.
This set me thinking about positives and negatives. Troubles come in different shapes and sizes, and they affect all of us at different times. In the above scripture, Paul is encouraging us not to focus on the troubles we’re going through now, but to lift up our eyes to the things that we can’t see now. It doesn’t come naturally to us, and we can so easily get bogged down with what’s happening at the moment that we lose sight of the Lord Jesus, and our relationship with Him as His sons and daughters. We can’t see Jesus now, yet He’s always with us. Things may look out of control down here, but the Lord’s on the throne in heaven, and He’s in control of everything that goes on in the world. Our times are in His hands, and He’s not going to allow us to be tested above what we’re able to bear. He promises that His grace will be sufficient for us and He’ll give us the strength we need for each new day.
What are you facing right now? Does it feel like the enemy is having a field day? Tell the Lord all about it, and let Him lift you up and show you things from His perspective. The enemy can make things look hopeless and black, but when we see things in the light of eternity, we know that all will be well in the end, and what we’re going through now will be nothing compared to the glory we’ll experience in being with our Lord Jesus for ever.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, You warned us that here on earth we’d have tribulation. But You told us to be of good cheer, because You’ve overcome the world. There are times when I feel so weak and helpless, but I want to be an overcomer, too. Thank You that You’ve promised to give me the strength I need each day. Please help me to trust You for all I need. Thank You, Lord. Amen.
Gemma Gardner lives in Norfolk with her husband, Dean, who until recently worked at Ellel Grange. They are both part of the Associate Ministry team which Gemma joined after completing the Modular school. Gemma has experienced the Lord`s healing and restoration over many years and longs to see Him healing other broken people. Gemma loves listening to music, cooking, knitting and crochet as well as outdoor exercise. She enjoys playing guitar and singing worship songs.
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