Sunday, July 27, 2008

Turning Opposition into Opportunity

No one goes through life problem free. The question is, how do you handle your circumstances? Do you try to ignore them and hope they'll go away or do you allow yourself to nearly drown in a self-made pity pool?

Paul in the Bible was faced with constant challenges and opposition. In 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 he said, "We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed..."

Every opposition in your life carries an opportunity for you to learn, live or give.

Ask yourself the following questions when you're facing some type of opposition:

1. What can I learn about myself from this situation? (What attitudes, character traits, choices, etc. does this situation reveal about me?)

2. How should I live in the face of the challenge? (Choose courage, faith, love, hope, etc.)

3. What can I give in the situation? (Give yourself another chance, give your time to help someone else, give the gift of forgiveness for some offense, give up your own pride, give up on negative thinking)

One final note, challenges are a part of life's lessons designed to make you stronger and wiser not only in your personal and spiritual life but in your business dealings as well.

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Beverly,

These are such inspiring thoughts and so very true. Sometimes we get bogged down in the challenge and forget to look for the gift. Thanks for the reminder!

Anonymous said...

Beverly,
As always, the inspiration I need is right in front of me - I just have to open my eyes. For me, the most powerful and healing point you make is #3: What can I give? Thank you for this powerful reminder of our real strength.
Suzanna Stinnett