On Adjusting for Your Journey
January 24, 2009
You will probably agree that we all want to live rich, peaceful, and successful lives. Strangely, too often we embrace behaviors that virtually guarantee that our lives will go in the opposite direction! As we assemble during this fourth Sunday of 2009, what actions can you and I take to minimize such an occurrence? One writer suggests three. First, we must resolve to leave the blues behind (Psa. 16:7-9). Negative, regret-filled thinking makes it extremely difficult for one to adopt an optimistic attitude. Secondly, accept the things you cannot change (2 Sam. 12:15-23). Too many people sing the “I sure wish I did” song, which is usually followed by the “If I had only” chorus. Understand something, friends: we can learn from the past, but we cannot relive it. What is the alternative? Move forward in your life, and stop trying to alter the unalterable. Finally, banish your doubts and embrace your hopes (Psa. 37:1-5). Think of it for a moment. For the first time in its 233-year history, our nation has an African-American President. Persons once relegated to the lowest place now occupy the highest place. This momentous occasion could not have happened if, through the years, good people were content to be shackled by doubt; it would have been impossible if hungry hearts refused to hope. No, adjustments had to be made for the journey. Adjustments in thinking. Adjustments in attitude. Adjustments in courage. With all this in mind, friend, what adjustments have you made? Please think about it! —JLNJR (Resource: Essence Magazine, 2/09, p. 186)
