DEALING WITH “THE GOOD, THE BAD, AND THE UGLY” – it’s a way that people sometimes describe the challenge of coping with all of “the stuff” that life sometimes brings.
It came to mind this morning as I read Philippians 4:11-13 in the Bible during my time of “coffee with the Lord.”
Apostle Paul was in prison, possibly facing death, dealing with isolation from those he loved, deprivation, unpleasantness, discouragement and even despondency. How could he deal with those challenges? His faith – his confidence in God – helped provide an answer and gave him the resources he needed! In his darkest hours he declared he had “learned a secret” (a “secret” he shares with us all)! Here’s “the secret” in his own words…
“I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I HAVE LEARNED THE SECRET of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH HIM WHO STRENGTHENS ME.”
What a secret – Divine enablement – Christ’s sufficiency – and the Holy Spirit empowerment!
But that’s not all… Add to that the loving care, generosity, and caring concern of fellow Christians…
He goes on to say, “Yet it was kind of you [fellow Christians in Philippi] to share in my trouble… the gifts you sent were a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God. [And then Paul gives this assurance to these self-sacrificing, generous, compassionate fellow Christians…] And my God will supply every need of yours according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus!” (Philippians 4:14-19)
So how can a Christian deal with “the good, the bad, and the ugly” that life sometimes bring? Combine God’s complete sufficiency and add to that the support and help of fellow Christians (i.e. the “body of Christ’) and we have everything we need to face whatever life brings! What a secret! Praise the Lord!
Coffee With The Lord 