The Help; Unsung Hero; I Can Only Imagine; Coal Miners Daughter; and Your Life Story
I will try not to belabor the point, but there is a point .. or two. I believe every person has something in his/her life from which anger or bitterness could grow. In The Help movie the maids were badly treated; Unsung Hero reveals the story of the Smallbone family from which Rebecca St James sprang into fame as a singer after overcoming setback after setback. Bart Millard’s story is told in the movie I Can Only Imagine. Each person had adversity to overcome from which bitterness could grow and did for some, but those who overcame and reached a place of peace and accomplishment did so by God’s grace and by choosing to trust God.
I have been told that an “excuse” is the skin of a reason stuffed with a lie”! Have you faced adversity from places you hoped to receive loving support and encouragement? Have you ever used disappointment as an excuse to stay stuck? Many people you know have, and if we knew their stories we probably wouldn’t blame them if they have become angry or bitter people. But what a tragedy to have lived in bondage when they(we) could be free. How much more thrilling is it when those who could be bitter aren’t?
How did they do it? How did they come to peace instead of falling to pieces?
My guess may sound canned, but it is a valid path to peace!
1. They probably came to a fresh experience of Jesus’ love and care in the middle of their pain.
2. They probably told God all about the situation with passionate expression – inwardly or out loud.
3. They may have done this trip to God’s throne in prayer multiple times.
4. I am guessing that coming to know not only God’s heart, but also His power, became their calming place of rest; eventually replacing their hurt, anger or guilt with a new perspective – Jesus’ perspective.
5. Their inward change became their outward testimony as by God’s grace and power they overcame life’s traps and roadblocks. Instead of getting bitter; they got better.
This cycle may have to be repeated several times for it to stick, but it can and it will. My life is new today and every day I “cast all my cares on Him because He cares for me”. (1 Peter 5:7)
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7 NIV
In God’s eyes you are very valuable and valued- kind, smart, and important!!