God’s Unconventional Blessings
We often have a fixated idea of what constitutes a good life and what blessings mean. We may also have a rigid mindset of how blessings should come, preferably in an easy, comfortable, painless and quick way. Yet sometimes, God breaks our typical expectations, only to surprise us with His unconventional blessings. Indeed, what God has prepared for those who love Him are “what no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived” <1 Co 2:9>.
Mercy In The Mess
Brokenness abounds in a sinful world. Every corner we turn, we can observe broken relationships, shattered hopes, crushed self-esteem, messy lives, etc. Having a broken relationship with God, fallen humans lack the capacity to love perfectly and live in holiness, thus multiplying the brokenness in the world. Yet, the living God still works within the mess, to demonstrate His mercy. God’s people may not be perfect but they are redeemable. If we look to Him in our brokenness, He can ultimately turn our pains into praise.
Discipline for the Loved, Grace for the Unloved
God’s love is holistic and comes to us just the way we need it. When we are on the wrong path, God’s love is shown through His discipline, so that we can follow Him in the right way again. Yet, when we are disappointed in life and feel as if we are forgotten, unloved, inferior, God comes to us with His awesome grace to comfort us and lift us up. We may feel our lives are not at the ideal state yet, but God is progressively fulfilling His good work and promises to us. Let us find strength in His unfailing love!
“Surely The Lord Is In This Place, And I Did Not Know It”
One great promise of God to His people is “I am with you”. This promise can strengthen our heart and give it rest, whenever we believe. Yet, the truth that “God is with us” is also one that is hard for us to be conscious of moment by moment. For we are more often preoccupied with things in front of us – the immediate pleasures, deadlines, things to do, persons we are facing, etc, than to be mindful of God’s presence. Have you ever encountered God personally? He is with you right where you are, even in your ordinary and mundane circumstances. Open your spiritual eyes to see Him now and find rest in following Him!
Human Weakness Cannot Thwart God’s Plan
Are Christians all of worthy and holy character? People expect them to be. Yet, when we look at the Bible, we may be surprised that many of God’s chosen and blessed people also fall short of a godly character. Today, as with ancient people of faith, we also have many lingering weaknesses even after believing in God. Thankfully, God remains faithful to fulfil His promises in spite of human failings. By His grace, His chosen people will both be blessed as promised but also be disciplined for not fully trusting and obeying Him.
