The Good and The Bad
Years
ago Charles Dickens wrote, “It was the
best of times, it was the worst of times.”
Many people feel that way
about springtime. We love the budding of
the trees, blooming of the flowers, and the return of the birds. The warmer
weather motivates us to be outside to work and play. We feel energized by the
longer days and brighter sun. Yet, at
the same time, for many of us, it is also allergy season! That can mean runny
eyes and a stuffy nose, difficulty breathing, congestion that can lead to
infection, and feeling just plain miserable.
Like much of life, springtime brings along with it, the good and the
bad.
The
question is, how do we respond to it all? I know my tendency is to rejoice in
the good, but complain about the bad. Sometimes
I can allow the bad to overshadow the good to the point that I only see the
bad, thus losing sight of any of the good. Even in the midst of so much
good—i.e. so many blessings—I can end up complaining, whining, and losing all
sense of gratitude.
The
Apostle, as he reflected on the good and the bad of his life wrote these
words: “…for I have learned to be content whatever
the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to
have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every
situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.” (Philippians 4:11-12 – NIV)
And, because he had learned to accept and be content in all
circumstances he could write earlier on, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it
again: Rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4 – NIV)
Paul had learned to rejoice, not just in the good, but in the midst of
both the good and the bad. He had learned to rejoice always!
For most of us, today will probably be a mixture of the
good and the bad. Our lives as a whole will contain both good and the bad. The
question is, how will you and I respond?
Let’s not become so negative that all we can see is the bad. Instead, let’s
see God at work in every situation and season of our lives. Let’s take note of
the blessings, even in the midst of difficulty. And, lets rejoice in the Lord always!
Have a great day!
Pastor Tim Harris
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