I’m Troubled: Devotions From Time Of GraceSample

Nothing works out for me

Do you have any friends who are always saying things like: “Just my luck.” “I always get the short straw.” “If there’s a line that isn’t moving, I’m in it.” “I just can’t get a break.” Or do your friends hear you saying those things? Were you just joking, or do you harbor a secret fear that you are doomed to a life of frustration and disappointment? 

Scripture’s good news for God’s people helps us see that those negative voices in the back of our mind were planted there by the deceiver who wants you to think and feel like a loser. In fact, you are a winner because you are connected to Christ, the ultimate winner. 

Little Israel had absorbed all manner of disasters and disciplines, but none of those bad experiences could take away the central fact that the Lord delights in his believers and has a happy outcome for each one: “Sing, Daughter Zion; shout aloud, Israel! Be glad and rejoice with all your heart, Daughter Jerusalem! The Lord has taken away your punishment, he has turned back your enemy. The Lord, the King of Israel, is with you; never again will you fear any harm” (Zephaniah 3:14,15). The gospel makes optimists of us all. Let your mind dwell on Christ’s mighty works on your behalf. Let your mind resonate with the Spirit’s words and presence in your life. 

And practice some new self-talk: “I wonder what amazing thing God is going to do for me today.”