THE FINAL SCORE
TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.
John 16:33 NLT
TODAY’S THOUGHT
When I was a young adult, I used to think if I really got things all worked out right between me and God, I’d never have another problem. Those older saints I saw at church seemed to never have any problems. They were always upbeat, happy, and shouting victory. As I got older, I realized those saints had just as many problems as others—maybe even more. They had learned a secret about problems—one must choose what to focus on. They chose to find their peace in Jesus not in their present circumstances. They had learned the secret of trusting in Jesus regardless of the present pain or discomfort. They kept the end in sight. I often watch programs and sports events after they have happened. I enjoy American football and often record games I want to watch and schedule a time to watch them--usually later that same day. Some time back I was recording a game when someone I was with announced the final score--they were tracking it on their phone. Later that night I sat down to watch a very close and intense game. Through all the tension of the final moments I was excited because I knew the outcome--my team was going to win. The sportscasters were not giving my team much of chance to win because the other team was dominating the game. But I was excited because I knew the final score. I didn’t know how we got to that score, so there was tension and excitement to see how it would play out. Jesus tells us that in this life we are going to have difficulties and struggles--but He also tells us the final score. We win!
TODAY’S PRAYER
Holy Spirit remind me today that we win. Help me to see past today's problems to the victory that is mine through Jesus. Give me the courage to follow Jesus even through the storms.
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