Friday, September 30, 2016

Philippians 4:13 -- On Pessimism vs Hope

"I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me."
Philippians 4:13


We underestimate ourselves a lot.  We tell ourselves that we can't do things, that we aren't good at things, that we just don't have the talent, or we're not smart enough.  We don't feel strong enough emotionally or physically, or maybe we think that we were born a certain way, with a desire or an impediment or a weakness that is just our cross to bear, but it makes us unable to accomplish, become, or do something that we really want to do.

Based on this scripture, perhaps we should step back and reevaluate.  Maybe we're being pessimistic or too hard on ourselves.  Maybe we're not being creative enough.  Perhaps there is a way to the promised land after all.  The Brother of Jared had to think pretty far outside the box to get light in those barges.  Nephi successfully crossed the ocean on a boat he built from scratch on his first try.  Moses parted a sea.  Faith and hope and trust in God strengthened them and helped them do what seemed impossible.

The thing is... it is ALWAYS going to seem impossible at some point.  Where would be the drama of our stories be without some conflict and obstacles and hope seeming to be lost?  It's all part of the test of life, and included in the script. :)  But we're the heroes.  [Spoiler alert]  ... It turns out okay in the end.  Because God.  Because miracles.  Because it is never truly hopeless; it only seems so sometimes.

Today, let's remember that we can do all things through Christ.  Let's pray for that strength.  Let's trust in that happy ending and not give up halfway through the story.  Let's think.  Let's find a way.  God is on our side, and if we stick with him, we can't fail.  Well, I mean, of course we can fail... but only temporarily, never permanently. :)  We just have to keep at it, and make it to that last chapter.  The best one ever; I promise. :)  ... And even better because it matters a heck of a lot more: *God* promises.  Let's trust God.  Our last chapter on earth is just the beginning of a brand new, eternal story better than we could ever imagine.

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