Bible verses: I Corinthians 10:11-13; Matthew 5:45

When things are going well – we have a good job or school is going well, we have enough money in our pocket, relationships are happy, the sun is shining and we’re relatively close to God – in short, when we’re feeling that we’re on top of the world, then it’s important to remember the sad times.

Why? As our Scripture for today warns, it is during these “happy” times that we are more susceptible to sin. We think that because we are currently doing fine, that nothing can shake us. That other person we see suffering is just unfortunate. That bad thing could never happen to us, could it? We don’t feel a whole lot of compassion for that brother or sister because they’re just unlucky and we’re well, lucky.

It’s at just such times in our lives that we are easily deceived by Satan into thinking that our blessings are because of our own doing – and that the suffering in the other guy’s life is somehow his or her own doing. In reality, neither may be true. God is in control and causes the sun to shine on the good guy and the bad guy, just as He causes the rain to fall on the good guy and the bad guy.

Now I am not advocating that we constantly focus on the dark and sad times of our lives. I’m for enjoying each day as God gives it. But I am saying that when we are going through a relatively happy time we don’t become prideful and think that we’ll never have a difficult time again. By God’s grace we thank Him for the joy He’s currently given us, and ask Him to help us be compassionate and understanding toward those who are going through a “dark” time. Dear Lord, may I be a kind and understanding person this day, by your grace.
- Marcia M.