Good Opportunities!

We might be on the lookout for many "good opportunities" in life. Those opportunities may be associated with a good deal on something we wish to purchase, a nice place to live, a career choice, or many other desires associated with this life. However, how do we define "good"? Comfortable? Delightful? Enjoyable? Pleasant? Could a good opportunity not be exactly what we desire yet be exactly what provides opportunity that might not otherwise exist? If so, are we able to focus on the HIGHER GOOD and surrender to being used toward it?

As Jesus was very honest with His disciples regarding challenges that were to come, He stated. . .

"(12) But before all this they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons, and you will be brought before kings and governors for my name's sake. (13) THIS WILL BE YOUR OPPORTUNITY TO BEAR WITNESS." ( Luke 21:12-13 ESV)

Such situations would result or turn out to be opportunities to testify to the truth of Jesus in the presence of those they might not otherwise have the opportunity. Paul's arrest and eventual imprisonment at Rome provided the opportunity to share his faith and the truth of the Gospel with Roman officials (i.e. Acts 24:24; 26:1-29) and ultimately even reach some in "Caesar's household." ( Philippians 4:22)

As we surrender to being used by God in drawing others to Christ, we may not always find ourselves doing what we had planned or ending up where we had thought we would. However, do we have enough love for the Lord and the lost to recognize the opportunities as they arise to share the Good News of Jesus? Certainly we may face unpleasant challenges, but are we open to seeing the HIGHER GOOD God can do through us wherever we might be?

You may not be in the school you want, but can you shine with the example of Christ where you are? The job you have (or eventually gain) may not be exactly what you had envisioned, but do you see the opportunities for your godly example to be made evident in your work ethic and how you interact with co-workers? The community in which you live may not be the one you really wanted, but can you see the opportunities for the HIGHER GOOD you can do there as you stand firm in your faith and selflessly serve in the love of Christ?

Though mistreated by others or having our faith opposed, there is opportunity for HIGHER GOOD. The genuineness of our faith can be made more evident and others may come to know it is worth standing for as well. May we keep our eyes open to the opportunities God provides wherever we are and whatever the situation as we journey on through this life.

Have a great day FULFILLING GOD'S GOOD WHERE WE ARE!
Carl

See other teEn-MAIL on Opportunity