Day 30--God has better plans for you than a pity party.

“When I was 13 I went to Camp Blessing over the summer.  It was incredible to see all the campers with special needs just having fun.  They jumped around and praised God and are the happiest people I’ve ever met.  That really gave me a new perspective on how I handle my problems.  Like I can either sit and feel sorry for myself or I can continue to grow stronger in my faith in God.  Thankfully I chose the second option. J” –Kate B.

AMEN, Kate!!  Not a one of us is perfect.  Not a one of us is un-challenged in some way.  We can either dwell on these things, treat them as punishments and waste our time on self-pity, or we can look to God and gain peace.  Praising God isn’t just a reaction to the good things that have happened to us.  It’s a way of reminding ourselves of what carries us through the hard times, too.   

“But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me….For when I am weak, then I am strong.” 2 Corinthians 12:9,10

There’s an amazing Casting Crowns song called “Praise You in the Storm.”  It’s all about remembering who God is when things get tough.  Whether good times or bad, our God is unchanging and He is strong!  Strong enough for all of our imperfections.  Let go your sorrow for those things you wish could be different and lean on Christ instead. 

Father, help me to put aside my feelings for the things that seem to be going wrong today.  Help me to look beyond those things about myself that I don’t like.  Help me, instead, to focus on your strength and your love.  Help me to remember that every imperfection in my life, every difficult moment, is an opportunity for me to lean on you and let your light shine through me instead.  Amen.