I had an opportunity to participate in a program I felt would really help me and my ministry. The obstacle: cost. I could see the value, but my precious husband felt it was unnecessary. I felt deeply disappointed. I thought about how I could earn the money for it. I would get people to sponsor me with the promise I’d pass on to them what I learned. There had to be a way to make it happen.

Ironically, I’d just been thinking about how we put our faith in the wrong things. We believe that if ________ happens, then we’ll be fulfilled, better, or satisfied. Sometimes those things do enhance our lives, but they can also become idols that keep us from true gold.

Jesus said, “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly” (John 10:10 ESV). That means that when we are continually being filled with Christ, adverse circumstances and difficult people can’t ruin our lives.

• When my boss is being unreasonable, I can still have a good life.
• When my vacation doesn’t pan out, I can still be happy.
• When my child is sick, I can still have peace.
• When I miss my goal, I can still rejoice in hope.

The Apostle Paul’s prayer reminds us of how much God loves us and is involved in our lives:

“When I think of all this, I fall to my knees and pray to the Father, the Creator of everything in heaven and on earth. I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit. Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong. And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God.

Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. Glory to him in the church and in Christ Jesus through all generations forever and ever! Amen” (Ephesians 3:14-21 NLT).

As I prayed about my desire to learn more and the apparent closed door to the course, the Lord gave me another idea. I could share the information I have been learning with a group. It might not be the same, but it would provide mutual accountability and encouragement for those of us on a similar journey. I emailed three gals I’d met at a writing conference. Immediately, I heard back from two who want to start.

This week trusting my Father means I need to stop pining the closed door and walk through the open one—even if my emotions haven’t caught up yet.

What helps you overcome disappointment? Click here to share your thoughts.

Blessings,

Debbie W. Wilson

Linking with: #LivefreeThursday

Photo by: Somerset Hills Doors & Millwork