It seems to me we learn to cope with circumstances through facing those circumstances. That being said, our attitude of gratitude occurs when we successfully overcome circumstances and are thankful for the experience because it has: #1 taught us something, #2 resulted in something unexpected, therefore exciting to us, or #3 surprised us by its outcome.
Those of us who believe in the sovereignty of God know that nothing is just happenstance. If we live in the sure knowledge that God is in charge of our every experience know that He designs experiences for our good and His glory. Even the difficult days become testimonies to His guidance, if we’re serious in looking at life that way. I call encounters Godincidences. Some call them Providence. The world calls them luck or magic or some such nonsense.
I confess I am closer to God’s guidance sometimes rather then others. When I am challenged by something too big for me to handle, I call on Abba Father. One of my sinful nature traits is to try to handle things on my own. So, I need to rely on Him for the everyday things I take for granted that I have under control. I’m learning that. As aging occurs, I find less strength of my own. Everything takes more time and energy than it used to. It’s God’s way of teaching me to rely on His strength, and certainly His wisdom. Therefore, these circumstances are opportunities for Him to shine and me to fade. I’m learning.
To that point, here’s a great observation in Jesus Calling today. Sarah Young says it better than I’ve tried to: “As you journey through rough terrain with Me, gain confidence from your knowledge that together we can handle anything. This knowledge is comprised of three parts: your relationship with Me, promises in the Bible, and past experiences of coping successfully during hard times.” Oh yes.
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