Not Just OK With This

 

For the sake of Christ, then,

I am content with weaknesses,

insults, hardships,

persecutions, and calamities. 

For when I am weak,

then I am strong.

        2 Corinthians 12. 10

If we did not struggle,

if everything was in

      our control

   and smooth sailing,

would we even turn to God

  and realize our dependence

  on Him?

Would we even consider

      praying about this?

Or walking with Him through it?

Are we seeking

            to glorify Him

    or just ourselves?

Being content

    is not being complacent,

but actively walking with God,

knowing He is doing a mighty work.

Not being ok with circumstances

  but seeing them as an opportunity

           to honor God,

yes, even in this,

to grow closer to Him,

     by responding differently.

O LORD,

When the struggles 

         and troubles come 

  knocking at our door,

help us to see hardships

with new eyes 

      and a heart strengthened

      by You.

We are ready and willing

    to serve You,

even in this hard place.

Grant to us Your strength

    to fulfill Your purposes

and Your wisdom

             to know how.

As for us,

  we know it is not to defeat us,

but for You to bring

    Your victory to it

         in countless souls.

Our shoes are double-knotted,

not just ok with this,

  but faithful and ready for the run.

We turn to You to show us

     Your way through.