You are the goodness in my life

    There are days when it is easy to be joyful, happy, positive. You feel hope and confident that you can handle whatever comes your way. And there are days when depression, discouragement, negativity all seem rolled into one, and it is truly difficult to see the light at the end of the tunnel. I personally would love it if every day could be a “great” day. But, the reality is that some days will always be easier than others.
    Last week, I shared about the goodness of God. My focus was the song “The Goodness” sung by Toby Mac and Blessing Offor. I choose to continue along the same vein. There is still more encouragement to be had from this song. The third verse speaks of an eclectic mix of things that can remind us of God’s goodness:
        You are the joy 
        You're the smile on the face of Your boy 
        You're the flowers at that park in Detroit
        Still the words on the back of our coins
        Let's make some noise
Nothing about this verse seems linked. Yet, at the end of the day, no matter what we go through, there is ALWAYS something that reveals God’s goodness to us. It’s about appreciating the little things, those insignificant things that we take for granted. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 says: “In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” Some may interpret this verse to mean that we should be thankful for everything, both good and bad. Others may see it as being thankful even while going through a difficult season. However you view it, I believe God wants us to see His goodness in the big and little things, as well as in the good seasons and in the bad.
    A few mornings ago, I got up and decided to spend some time in prayer. I got up with the intention of bringing something that was bothering me before God. Instead, I found myself being thankful. God took charge of my entire prayer time and what should have been me reaching out to God for help, turned into a beautiful session of thanksgiving! God helped me to realise what was really important. He shifted my focus so that I found myself being able to see His goodness in the midst of a variety of negative situations. I found myself being amazed as God helped me see how good He has truly been to me over the years. It did not matter anymore what I had actually gotten up to pray about, God’s goodness became my focus. The problem I wanted to pray about became but a small thing and I believe I had more peace in that atmosphere of thanksgiving than if I had spent a whole hour crying out to Him!
    I encourage you today to shift your focus a bit. Life is what it is yet, God is still good in spite of everything! No, your problem is no less stressful or painful but remembering God’s goodness can be the strength you need to cope. God’s goodness can be the peace you need in the midst of your storm. It can be the hope and reminder that God is with you while you are going through. Knowing that you are not alone can help you be confident that you are going to make it. Yes, God is still good no matter what!
    If you have not accepted Jesus Christ into your life as your personal Lord and Saviour, I invite you to make that step now. God wants to be there for you and with you. He wants to be the One you turn to no matter what you are facing. Give Him that chance to show His goodness to you today.​

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