On This Hand….On That Hand
This life will hand out all types of circumstances and situations that will play an important part in our refining. You’ve often heard the saying, “On this hand you have….. and on the other hand you have……..” it’s a reminder that we always have the choice of how we will respond to our life issues.
In writing this I was thinking of Joni Eareckson Tada, who at the age of 17 became a quadriplegic after a tragic diving accident. It’s hard to imagine that kind of suffering, but her trials were only beginning. She’s faced a lifetime of disability, cancer diagnoses, chronic pain, and more.
She had a choice to make. On one hand she could become bitter and angry at the limitations and possibilities she would never have or on the other hand she could turn her hands to God and the opportunities that He could bring because of her condition.
She chose to open her hands to God and and she’s come through all of it believing that God is good no matter what circumstances she may face. Here are a few quotes from Joni that really put all of this into perspective:
- “I’d rather be in this wheelchair knowing God, than on my feet without Him.”
- “I want to stay in the habit of ‘glancing’ at my problems and ‘gazing’ at my Lord.”
- “My wheelchair was the key to seeing all this happen—especially since God’s power always shows up best in weakness. So here I sit … glad that I have not been healed on the outside, but glad that I have been healed on the inside. Healed from my own self-centered wants and wishes. ”
The ministry that God has blessed her with has reached millions for Christ.
In the song “Held,” the lyrics continue, “This hand is bitterness, we want to taste it, let the hatred numb our sorrow. The wise hands are open slowly to lilies of the valley and tomorrow.” Lilies of the valley are flowers that represent humility, the purity of Christ and renewed happiness.
When we are in the midst of suffering and we choose to humbly submit to God’s will for our lives, we begin to experience His peace and see His purpose in our circumstances. It’s then that we start to see the hope that awaits us and the joy that will come in a life lived for Christ, regardless of the challenges.
Be Intentional about choosing God’s will in your circumstances.
Praises & Prayers
Father, I thank you for people like Joni who remind us that nothing is a surprise to You and that You can make good of every situation for those who love You. I pray that we will choose to live in Your will for us and see the opportunities You have prepared for us. May You be glorified Lord. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Messages from His Word
Genesis 50:20
You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.