“We are all faced with a series of great opportunities brilliantlly disguised as impossible situations.”- Chuck Swindoll
In Chapter 2 (“Involuntary Perseverance”) of Finding Favor, Brian Jones notes that, to our dismay, sometimes God responds to our request for favor in way that seems rather stark. While we expect God to open new doors that enable us to explore new opportunities, He slams doors shut. He answers our request with resounding ‘no.’
Furthermore, no matter how mad or frustrated His answer makes us, God remains resolute. At least for a season, God forces us to stay put. As a result, He can finish His work in our lives.
In addition, Pastor Jones points out, staying put shocks us. When we pray for God’s favor, closed doors represent the last thing we expect. Instead, we expect to be blessed. Thus, we fail to realize that God limiting our options may turn out as one of His greatest blessings of all.
Also, Brian reminds us, the Bible talks a great deal about perseverance. Yet, we understand only one aspect – choosing not to quit. However, there’s another facet of perseverance. That’s when God makes the choice for us. Pastor Jones explains:
“Sometimes God responds to our requests for new assignments by saying, ‘I don’t care how much you say you hate it. I’m not going to let you quit. I can’t do a great work through you until I do a great work in you. You’re going to stay the course. This is the way I’m choosing to show you my favor right now.’ ”
In conclusion, Brian asks, are you willing to:
- accept this aspect of God’s favor?
- submit your plans and dreams to a God who will double bolt all your escape routes at a moment’s notice?
Today’s question: What great opportunities in your life disguise themselves as impossible situations? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Whole-heartedness, the antidote to exhaustion”
