“When we keep track of our disappointments and keep rehearsing them in our minds, a bitter root will start to grow in our hearts that is poisonous. . . . Each new morning provides an opportunity to reframe our thoughts around the challenges and troubles we know the day will bring.”- Kyle Idleman
“The LORD is my portion; therefore I will wait for him.” Lamentations 3:24 (NIV)
Kyle Idleman concludes Chapter 12 of Every Thought Captive with three things Jeremiah tells himself.
1. God’s compassions never fail. The word new as used in Lamentations 3:23 doesn’t equate to ‘new of the same kind.’ Instead, it means ‘new and of a different kind.’ Therefore, God never serves us leftovers. He provides new mercies and compassions. So, as you start your morning, remind yourself of this truth.
2. God’s faithfulness is incomparably great. Consider this truth. God is at work, even when we fail to see it or feel it. Certainly, you’ll face challenges and struggles. And some overwhelming circumstances. Hence, to rejoice always and give thanks, put your hope in Jesus. Not your circumstances. As a result, you count on the sovereignty of God. Rather than the situation going the way you want.
3. The Lord is my portion, and because of that truth, I am content to wait. In Lamentations 3:24, Jeremiah makes this point. God is enough. Thus, only God satisfies us. We need nothing else. Consequently, we resolve to wait for God.
In conclusion, Pastor Idleman counsels:
“When life is difficult, what do you say to yourself? Who or what is your portion? You may think, . . When I get that thing I’m waiting for, I’ll be satisfied. No, you won’t. The Lord is your portion. He is the only one who is enough.”
Or, as Charles Spurgeon preached in his sermon Memory — The Handmaid of Hope:
“Your God is your all; therefore, if you have lost all but God, still you have your all left, because God is all.”
Today’s question: “What do you believe happens when we keep rehearsing our disappointments? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “The top button on a dress shirt”