Stress and unhappiness come from unfulfilled expectations, and they cause physical ailments. We get so upset that we drive our self into a negative tailspin, simply because we want something we do not have. If we are obsessively dreading or anticipating a future event, we may overlook the blessings God wants to give us now.
In fact, our feared or coveted event may never even happen; therefore, it is unhealthy for us to focus on what we want instead of what God already gave us. If God opens a door for us to procure what we desire, we will have total peace about it.
True contentment comes to us when we trust God to give us what He wants us to have. If we do not have it, we do not need it; otherwise, God would provide it – sometimes even before we ask for it (James 4:2-3). Daily, we wait for His timing and desires for every step of our current and future life (Proverbs 3:5-6).
The truth is that we need nothing and no one other than Jesus. In fact, He is our whole life (Colossians 3:3-4). We cling to Christ in us, and He is our only hope of reaping Heavenly splendor (Colossians 1:27). He makes us totally complete (Colossians 2:10). He repeatedly proves to us that He has our best interest in His heart.
Focusing on serving God as we go to work, participate in a hobby, visit with family and friends, or worship with our church family brings us into a deeper perspective and commitment to Him and to others. We also learn more about loving our self as well (Mark 12:31).
God has a peaceful plan and a hopeful future for us (Jeremiah 29:11). A fulfilled life does not include God and something else. When God is ready, we can trust and believe that He will bring us what He wants us to have. Our true contentment is found in God alone.
Prayer:
Father God, living in the center of Your will is the happiest place on earth. We may want to be or do something, and what we desire is contrary to Your will for us. Teach us that to continue to pursue that goal is counter-productive, and we miss out on Your blessings when we do. Help us to cherish Your continual gifts and to thank You for each one of Your provisions for us.
We only find contentment in Your perfect plan for our life. You will bring it to pass in Your timing and way. We can peek through every open door; however, remind us to wait on Your Holy Spirit within us to tell us whether or not to walk through that door. Teach us to rejoice each day in what You do give to us and help us to learn to be thankful and content (Philippians 4:11-12).
Thought for the Day:
When we surrender all our desires to the Lord and live our life as a praise offering to Him, then God will put His desires in our heart and meet them; He always works out every issue in our life for our ultimate good.
- Psalm 37:4; Romans 8:28
