January 14, 2021: Perspective > Problem

“‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future’” (Jer. 29:11, NIV).

Life is a matter of perspective, especially when facing a problem.

When things don’t go your way, and people seem to conspire against you, remember there are still many blessings in your life. One of the best ways to handle a problem is to try to look at it from God’s perspective, because His plans for your life are the best.

Many people respond to sudden difficulties with anger, frustration, bewilderment and a host of other negative emotions. Imagine what would happen if you responded with gratitude instead, not for the problem itself, but for the opportunities the problem can offer.

A few years ago, as I traveled through a country in South America, I was assaulted, robbed and left with nothing, not even money for food. At that moment, I had a decision to make: either sit immobilized and cry about what had just happened to me, or ask for God’s plan and help. I chose the latter, and He kept His promise and provided for my needs during the remainder of the trip.

Are you facing a problem or difficulty that seems impossible to solve? Live with gratitude and confidence in God’s plan for your life, because, in His hands, the impossible becomes possible.

Lord, thank You that, by abiding in You, we can change our perspective. Amen.

Pablo Cisneros is the pastor of the Luso-Brazilian church in New Jersey.