All the days of the afflicted are evil: but he that is of a merry heart has a continual feast. Proverbs 15:15. NKJV.
I must admit, there are some days I feel a part of the “afflicted.” Difficulties coming from right and left to knock me off my faith walk. Then I focus on the ‘merry heart’ section and I know I have experienced that as well. The two words in this verse that can cause us trouble is the “all the days” and “continual” perspectives.
Many commentaries make it clear. The afflicted do not necessarily have more outward battles than those with a merry heart, but it is how they react to them. It is a matter of perspective. It is often our choice, isn’t it? Jesus tells us so kindly in John 14:1, Do not let your heart be troubled, you believe in God, believe also in me. Life happens to everyone. Trials and tribulations hit every family. Jesus very clearly told us: In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world. John 16:33. NKJV. So the question to each of us is: how are we going to handle them?
Take time to take a deep breath. I usually begin by praying: Lord, help me. Simple prayer, but it reminds me He is there. This past week we received some news about one of my granddaughters. There was a possible diagnosis for a life-long and life changing illness. My heart sank when I read the text. Fortunately, I was just beginning our small group and asked for prayer. I forced my mind to stay focused on the fact it was only a possibility. The next night during our monthly prayer and worship meeting, our pastor asked if there was anyone dealing with undiagnosed medical issues. This is the first time I have heard him (or anyone!) do an altar call for undiagnosed medical issues! There were several of us who came. As I stood in for my granddaughter, I prayed “Father, please touch her body and let all things come back to normal.” Waiting another week challenged me to keep trusting, knowing that He has her future in His hands. The good news came back yesterday…all tests were normal!
I am so grateful for this good news. Our family has had its share of not the news we wanted to hear as well. But through each of these troubles, I have learned to trust Him and His perspectives. They aren’t mine. His ways and thoughts are higher than ours. When in doubt, trust Him. I read a quote by Joyce Meyer the other day. It is food for thought: Is your problem really your problem, or is it your attitude towards the problem that is your problem. Learning to ask Him to help you change your perspective is a huge tool. Like most new tools, it can take some effort to learn to use it, but it is doable, and oh so useful!
The Message Bible reads: a miserable heart means a miserable life; a cheerful heart fills the day with song. The New Living Translation reads: For the despondent, everyday brings trouble; for the happy heart, life is a continual feast. They give us a slightly different perspectives. Jesus came to give us life, and that more abundantly so if your heart is afraid, miserable or feeling despondent don’t run from Him, run to Him. Take the time to ask for His help with the different areas of your life where you maybe feeling afflicted. He wants to help.
Father, I thank you for helping us in these difficult areas. You know our days on earth can be difficult, but you encourage us to be of good cheer because you overcame those difficulties for us. Please help us believe Your Word and who You are, in Jesus’ Name, amen.
Faith Encounters 