When disappointment strikes, adrenalin spikes,
our vision narrows, our thinking blurs and our emotions rule.
Sounds like a formula for disaster, and it often is.
It is not easy to listen to the promptings of the Holy Spirit in this.
It is much easier to focus on the hot fire burning in my chest,
and out of that are spewed hot, destructive words.
It is only in preparation for such a time of temptation that we can prevail.
And what is this preparation?
First by memorizing Scripture, especially Psalm 50:23 and Hebrews 12:2.
And second, by practicing offering the sacrifice of thanksgiving
in less charged situations.
Last week I found myself in a position of disappointment:
I had been lied to several times by a company,
promised one price, charged much more.
To my shame, I did not offer the sacrifice of thanksgiving,
but instead complained, ostensibly closing the door to God’s help.
But He is merciful and gracious in the face of our unbelief.
As I turned to my email, there was an ad from this company
with an offer for what I wanted and cheaper than I was originally offered!
And there was a phone number to call, which I used
and was given the new, lower price!
This was a humiliating experience,
after all, I talk a lot about offering the sacrifice of thanksgiving,
but then in the heat of the battle, forgot.
However this failure has reinforced my commitment and desire
to offer the sacrifice of thanksgiving by faith, to honor God,
and open the way so He can show me the salvation of the Lord.
picture: light shines in repentance
