November 8, 2024

Philippians 1.14 (NIV)

Because of my chains, most of the brothers in the Lord have been encouraged to speak the word of God more courageously and fearlessly.

God doesn’t waste anything. He fulfills his providential purpose even during seasons of life that seem pointless to us.*

I hear it all the time: “Everything happens for a reason.” I don’t believe it, though. I believe that everything that happens can be used for a purpose and that some things happen for a reason. Could Paul determine that his imprisonment was for the express purpose of encouraging his fellow believers, or just a blessed by-product? What difference would it make?

Have you ever felt that your circumstances limited your ability to be a witness for the Lord? Paul could have been discouraged by his situation but instead his positive attitude and enthusiasm inspired others to boldly proclaim the gospel. In hockey, it is called an “assist” when, even if you didn’t score the goal, it wouldn’t have been made without your help.

Are you feeling disheartened because you can’t do as much for the Lord as you think you should? Is there someone who has encouraged you by her faithfulness in the midst of difficulty? Tell her. Call her; send her a card or an email. If the circumstances are not of a sensitive or confidential nature, post it on Facebook so that others can be blessed. Ask God to help you find a way to turn your chains into an instrument of encouragement.

The pessimist sees a difficulty in every opportunity. The optimist sees an opportunity in every difficulty.* [A realist understands that difficulty and opportunity are two sides of the same coin! - cc]